Damned Nations Greed, Guns, Armies, and Aid [Paperback]

Containing a new introduction from the author and updates to the text, this is a book of uncomon power. Here, an extraordinary humanitarian gives us a bracing and uncompromising account of her work in some of the most devastated corners of the world--and a provocative vision for changing course on our growing militarization.


     Samantha Nutt is one of the most intrepid voices in the humanitarian arena. Weaving gripping personal experiences with uncompromising and impassioned argument, Damned Nations dissects war and aid, where humanitarian efforts go wrong, and what can and should be done to bring about a more just world. Drawing from nearly two decades of experiences at the frontline of conflict, Nutt challenges many of the assumptions and orthodoxies surrounding the aid industry. A book that is at once moving, engaging, and insightful, Damned Nations has been acclaimed by readers and critics across North America.“Samantha Nutt is scrupulously consistent with her hard-nosed, direct, in-your-face style and defiant resolve in her approach to war and the massive abuses to humanity, especially women and children.  Samantha is telling us in no uncertain terms that humanitarianism starts by a 'critical reflection concerning our own actions and deeds.'  And then she offers some solid proposals to consider.  Well done, in a most compelling of ways.
—LGen the Hon. Roméo A. Dallaire, (Ret’d), Senator
 
This is an extraordinarily riveting book. The anecdotes are heart-wrenching; the analysis is trenchant, principled, uncompromising. I never read a book in one sitting: I readDamned Nationsin one sitting, and I regretted that it came to an end. It's not an easy read, but it's filled with emotional and intellectual power.
—Stephen Lewis, former Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations, and Chair of the Board of the Stephen Lewislc'