Unfortunately, the attitude of many towards the press, humanitarians included and especially government workers, is often one of suspicion, if not outright fear.

Humanitarian missions are little different from any other public enterprise, diplomacy included, which is susceptible of misinterpretation by the public, hence ultimately of failure.

In my experience, problems most frequently arise from those who report for television, with little field experience in your area but an insatiable appetite for a sound bite.

My view is different. Public relations are a key component of any operation in this day of instant communications and rightly inquisitive citizens.

I am convinced that dealing intelligently with the press is of the greatest importance to the success and effectiveness of a humanitarian mission.

Well I just figure any man who risks his neck to save a dog’s life isn’t going to kill someone for gold teeth.

Appreciate the power of rumor, often malicious, no matter how preposterous, within the local populations you are seeking to help.