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When Empathy Fades: The Collapse of Humanitarian Responsibility in a Structurally Broken World

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  • Carlos Lopes

Abstract

Motivation Humanitarianism has traditionally been anchored in empathy, but this foundation is eroding under the weight of systemic dysfunction. Purpose The article seeks to explain how the fading of empathy mirrors structural failures in global governance and the reorientation of development aid. Approach and Methods It employs a conceptual and policy analysis of trends in Official Development Assistance, the securitization of migration, and institutional realignment. Findings The study shows a sharp decline in the humanitarian orientation of aid, as national interests and security agendas increasingly dominate, leaving global solidarity weakened. Policy Implications Reviving humanitarian responsibility requires embedding empathy back into international decision‐making and implementing structural reforms that realign governance with the principles of solidarity and shared responsibility.

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  • Carlos Lopes, 2025. "When Empathy Fades: The Collapse of Humanitarian Responsibility in a Structurally Broken World," Development Policy Review, Overseas Development Institute, vol. 43(5), September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:devpol:v:43:y:2025:i:5:n:e70036
    DOI: 10.1111/dpr.70036
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