After the Tsunami - what next?

Our admiration goes out to all those who are involved with relief efforts for the victims of the southeast Asia tsunami. And we also endorse strong efforts to quickly deal with imminent needs like drinking water and immunizations against the coming diseases. However, after the lives are saved and the imminent danger is past, we hope that the world (especially the donors) will recognize that long-term value requires additional effort. Certainly there will be some long-term activities such as sensor devices placed in the Indian Ocean. But long-term answer to humanitarian work is development of local capacity. I have been gladdened by the generosity of people who want to help alleviate the suffering of fellow human beings. I have been saddened by donors who say they only want to help the immediate need and don't want any of their funds to go for long-term programs. I hope that these people will educate themselves on how effective those long-term efforts can be and that they'll support these efforts also.