Michael C. Howard’s research while affiliated with Simon Fraser University and other places

The relationship between development assistance and politics remains controversial after decades of debate. While some scholars argue that all assistance is inherently political, others contend that it is possible to maintain a high degree of political neutrality or that assistance can transcend its political dimension on the basis. of more fundamental humanitarian principles. Yet others have contended that through so-called non-governmental organizations or through multilateral agencies such as those associated with the United Nations, it is possible to escape from the politics that adheres to development assistance when bilateral relations between states are involved.