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Jennifer Leaning
and
Michael VanRooyen
From the Syrian refugee crisis to the West Africa Ebola outbreak, humanitarian emergencies have reached unprecedented dimensions and proportions. As need for humanitarian aid grows, how can efforts to alleviate human suffering evolve with it?
Read more
From the Syrian refugee crisis to the West Africa Ebola outbreak, humanitarian emergencies have reached unprecedented dimensions and proportions. As need for humanitarian aid grows, how can efforts to alleviate human suffering evolve with it?
Read more
From the Syrian refugee crisis to the West Africa Ebola outbreak, humanitarian emergencies have reached unprecedented dimensions and proportions. As need for humanitarian aid grows, how can efforts to alleviate human suffering evolve with it?
This course from the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative and HarvardX seeks to prepare learners to recognize and analyze emerging challenges in the humanitarian field. The course explores the ethical and professional principles that guide humanitarian response to conflict and disaster. Participants will learn the legal and historical frameworks that shaped these principles, test their applicability to the challenges faced by humanitarian actors today.
Through four case studies covering the responses to crises in Goma (Zaire), Somalia, the Balkans, Afghanistan and Pakistan, participants will engage with Harvard faculty, current practitioners, and one another. These cases introduce major trends affecting the current landscape of humanitarian response – including rapid population displacement, violence against aid workers, and civil-military engagement. Thoughtfully engaging with this course will prepare participants to be informed and aware humanitarian practitioners, scholars, policy-makers, and global citizens.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuo6pw/humanitarian
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- Legal and historical frameworks shaping the professionalization of the humanitarian field
- An applied understanding of the principles guiding humanitarian response and the tensions that arise when operationalizing these principles in modern crises
- How to recognize and adapt to major trends affecting the scope and implementation of humanitarian work
- Legal and historical frameworks shaping the professionalization of the humanitarian field
- An applied understanding of the principles guiding humanitarian response and the tensions that arise when operationalizing these principles in modern crises
- How to recognize and adapt to major trends affecting the scope and implementation of humanitarian work
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Designed for practitioners and global citizens, the course aims to cultivate informed and aware individuals
Emphasizes ethical and professional principles in humanitarian response, providing a strong foundation for learners
Provides case studies involving major humanitarian crises, allowing learners to engage with real-life scenarios
Leverages the expertise of Harvard faculty and current practitioners, offering learners access to industry insights
Taught by Jennifer Leaning and Michael VanRooyen, recognized for their contributions to humanitarian initiatives
The course may be particularly relevant for individuals working in humanitarian aid or aspiring to pursue a career in the field
Save this course
Save Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Humanitarian response course
Learners say this well-received course provides practical knowledge for humanitarian workers facing emergency situations. The course includes contributions from experts in the field and engaging discussions among diverse participants.
Participants come from different backgrounds.
"I really enjoyed this course - especially I am glad for participation of people from really different fields who has different personal and professional points of view ..."
Instructors have experience in the field.
"This e-learning series is specially designed for humanitarian workers who actually face critical situations in field during conflict situations and humanitarian crises."
Course is applicable to real-world scenarios.
"Amazing course, with a quick technical and theoretical review followed by an in-depth practical analysis of real-world scenarios."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster with these
activities:
Explore online tutorials on humanitarian principles and practices
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and skills by accessing expert-led tutorials on various aspects of humanitarian work.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable organizations offering online tutorials
-
Select tutorials that align with your interests
-
Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises
Review basic principles of humanitarian law
Show steps
Begin your journey towards mastering the complex field of humanitarian work with a review of fundamental legal concepts and principles.
Browse courses on
Humanitarian Law
Show steps
-
Consult online resources provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
-
Review relevant sections of the Geneva Conventions
-
Take practice quizzes to test your understanding
Engage in discussions on contemporary humanitarian crises
Show steps
Exchange perspectives and insights with fellow learners, fostering a deeper understanding of complex humanitarian situations.
Show steps
-
Select a topic for discussion
-
Research the chosen topic
-
Prepare talking points
-
Participate actively in the discussion
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read "The Humanitarian Agenda" by Michael Ignatieff
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the ethical dilemmas and challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in the 21st century.
Show steps
-
Read the assigned chapters and make notes
-
Discuss key concepts with classmates or colleagues
-
Write a short essay summarizing the main arguments
Practice Applying Humanitarian Principles
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the ethical and legal principles that guide humanitarian response by applying them to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Humanitarian Principles
Show steps
-
Identify a humanitarian case study with clear ethical dilemmas.
-
Analyze the case study and identify the key ethical principles involved.
-
Develop a plan of action that demonstrates how you would apply the ethical principles to the situation.
-
Present your plan to a group of peers or colleagues for feedback and discussion.
Create an infographic on key humanitarian principles
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of core humanitarian principles by designing a visually engaging infographic.
Show steps
-
Research and gather information on humanitarian principles
-
Choose a visual format and design
-
Develop clear and concise content
-
Share your infographic with others
Develop a case study analysis on a humanitarian response
Show steps
Apply your knowledge and analytical skills to evaluate the effectiveness of a real-world humanitarian intervention.
Show steps
-
Identify a specific humanitarian crisis
-
Research the response efforts and their outcomes
-
Analyze the response using the principles learned in the course
-
Write a report summarizing your findings
Volunteer with a local humanitarian organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and make a meaningful contribution by volunteering your time to a humanitarian cause.
Show steps
-
Identify organizations that align with your interests
-
Reach out to the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
-
Attend training sessions
-
Participate in volunteer activities
Become a mentor to aspiring humanitarian professionals
Show steps
Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring others who are eager to make a difference in the world of humanitarian work.
Show steps
-
Identify individuals who would benefit from your guidance
-
Share your knowledge and expertise
-
Provide support and encouragement
Explore online tutorials on humanitarian principles and practices
Show steps
Expand your knowledge and skills by accessing expert-led tutorials on various aspects of humanitarian work.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable organizations offering online tutorials
- Select tutorials that align with your interests
- Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises
Review basic principles of humanitarian law
Show steps
Begin your journey towards mastering the complex field of humanitarian work with a review of fundamental legal concepts and principles.
Browse courses on
Humanitarian Law
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Consult online resources provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
- Review relevant sections of the Geneva Conventions
- Take practice quizzes to test your understanding
Engage in discussions on contemporary humanitarian crises
Show steps
Exchange perspectives and insights with fellow learners, fostering a deeper understanding of complex humanitarian situations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a topic for discussion
- Research the chosen topic
- Prepare talking points
- Participate actively in the discussion
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Read "The Humanitarian Agenda" by Michael Ignatieff
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the ethical dilemmas and challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in the 21st century.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned chapters and make notes
- Discuss key concepts with classmates or colleagues
- Write a short essay summarizing the main arguments
Practice Applying Humanitarian Principles
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of the ethical and legal principles that guide humanitarian response by applying them to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Humanitarian Principles
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a humanitarian case study with clear ethical dilemmas.
- Analyze the case study and identify the key ethical principles involved.
- Develop a plan of action that demonstrates how you would apply the ethical principles to the situation.
- Present your plan to a group of peers or colleagues for feedback and discussion.
Create an infographic on key humanitarian principles
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of core humanitarian principles by designing a visually engaging infographic.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and gather information on humanitarian principles
- Choose a visual format and design
- Develop clear and concise content
- Share your infographic with others
Develop a case study analysis on a humanitarian response
Show steps
Apply your knowledge and analytical skills to evaluate the effectiveness of a real-world humanitarian intervention.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific humanitarian crisis
- Research the response efforts and their outcomes
- Analyze the response using the principles learned in the course
- Write a report summarizing your findings
Volunteer with a local humanitarian organization
Show steps
Gain practical experience and make a meaningful contribution by volunteering your time to a humanitarian cause.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify organizations that align with your interests
- Reach out to the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
- Attend training sessions
- Participate in volunteer activities
Become a mentor to aspiring humanitarian professionals
Show steps
Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring others who are eager to make a difference in the world of humanitarian work.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify individuals who would benefit from your guidance
- Share your knowledge and expertise
- Provide support and encouragement
Career center
Learners who complete Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian Aid Workers directly respond to emergencies such as natural disasters and armed conflict. Their primary objective is to alleviate human suffering and protect vulnerable populations by providing essential aid and services. This course provides a foundation that deepens your understanding of the ethical and legal principles guiding humanitarian response. Moreover, it exposes you to the challenges and best practices of providing humanitarian assistance in complex crises.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisors play a crucial role in shaping policies and programs related to humanitarian crises. They analyze complex issues, provide recommendations, and advocate for effective policies that address the needs of affected populations. This course will equip you with a deep understanding of the legal and historical frameworks that shape humanitarian response, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to policy development.
Program Manager
Program Manager
Program Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of humanitarian programs. They ensure that programs are aligned with humanitarian principles and effectively address the needs of beneficiaries. This course provides insights into the principles and practices of humanitarian response, enabling you to effectively manage programs in challenging environments.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers play a critical role in advancing the field of humanitarian response by conducting research on best practices, evaluating the impact of interventions, and informing policy decisions. This course provides a solid foundation in the ethical and legal frameworks that guide humanitarian response, enabling you to conduct rigorous and meaningful research in the field.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists play a pivotal role in raising awareness about humanitarian crises, influencing public opinion, and holding decision-makers accountable. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and challenges of humanitarian response, enabling you to report accurately and ethically on humanitarian issues.
Emergency Management Specialist
Emergency Management Specialist
Emergency Management Specialists are responsible for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. They develop and implement plans, coordinate resources, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure effective emergency response. This course provides valuable insights into the principles and practices of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective emergency management.
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialist
International Development Specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries by promoting economic and social development. They collaborate with local communities, governments, and organizations to address poverty, inequality, and other challenges. This course provides a solid understanding of the principles and challenges of humanitarian response, which is essential for effective international development work.
Community Development Worker
Community Development Worker
Community Development Workers work with communities to identify and address their needs and challenges. They facilitate community organizing, empower residents, and advocate for resources and services. This course provides valuable insights into the principles and practices of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective community development work.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers provide support and services to individuals, families, and communities facing challenges such as poverty, mental illness, and addiction. They advocate for their clients and help them access resources and services. This course provides a deep understanding of the principles of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective social work practice, particularly in crisis situations.
Disaster Relief Coordinator
Disaster Relief Coordinator
Disaster Relief Coordinators oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of disaster relief operations. They work with governments, aid organizations, and local communities to provide essential aid and services to disaster-affected populations. This course provides valuable insights into the principles and practices of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective disaster relief coordination.
Human Rights Officer
Human Rights Officer
Human Rights Officers monitor and report on human rights violations, advocate for the protection of human rights, and work to promote human rights awareness. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and legal frameworks that guide humanitarian response, which are essential for effective human rights work in conflict and disaster situations.
Conflict Resolution Specialist
Conflict Resolution Specialist
Conflict Resolution Specialists mediate and facilitate negotiations between parties in conflict. They help to resolve disputes, build consensus, and promote peace and reconciliation. This course provides valuable insights into the principles and practices of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective conflict resolution work in conflict-affected areas.
Peacebuilder
Peacebuilder
Peacebuilders work to prevent and resolve violent conflict and promote sustainable peace. They work with communities, governments, and international organizations to build trust, foster dialogue, and create conditions for peace. This course provides a deep understanding of the principles and challenges of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective peacebuilding work in conflict-affected areas.
Forensic Investigator
Forensic Investigator
Forensic Investigators collect and analyze evidence in criminal cases. They work with law enforcement, prosecutors, and other professionals to help solve crimes and ensure justice. This course provides valuable insights into the principles and challenges of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective forensic investigations in conflict and disaster situations.
Advocate
Advocate
Advocates represent and fight for the rights of individuals and groups who are facing injustice or discrimination. They work to promote social and economic change and ensure that everyone has access to justice. This course provides a deep understanding of the principles of humanitarian response, which are essential for effective advocacy work in conflict and disaster situations.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuo6pw/humanitarian
Reading list
We've selected 23 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster.
Is considered to be one of the most important foundational works in the field of humanitarian response to conflict and disaster. It was created through a collaborative effort of major humanitarian aid organizations, and it sets out the core principles and minimum standards for humanitarian response.
This classic text in the field of humanitarianism explores the ethical dilemmas that arise in humanitarian intervention, and it provides a framework for thinking about how to make ethical decisions in these complex situations.
A comprehensive overview of the legal framework governing humanitarian assistance, including the rights and obligations of humanitarian organizations.
Collection of essays that explore the ethical dimensions of humanitarian work. It covers a wide range of topics, including the principles of humanitarianism, the challenges of impartiality and neutrality, and the dilemmas of intervention.
Save
A detailed account of the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan, including the role of the international community in responding to the crisis.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the humanitarian crisis in Syria. It covers the causes of the conflict, the impact on civilians, and the challenges facing humanitarian actors.
Save
A history of humanitarianism, including the different ways that humanitarianism has been defined and practiced over time.
This report from the World Health Organization provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. It includes information on the causes of the outbreak, the response by governments and organizations, and the lessons learned.
A memoir by a lawyer who has dedicated his life to defending the poor and marginalized, including those on death row.
A discussion of the concept of the responsibility to protect, which argues that the international community has a responsibility to intervene to prevent mass atrocities.
An analysis of the history of genocide, with a focus on the role of the United States in preventing or intervening in genocides.
Save
A philosophical examination of the ethics of humanitarian intervention, including the different arguments for and against intervention.
Save
A philosophical argument for humanitarian intervention, arguing that the international community has a moral obligation to intervene to prevent mass atrocities.
Provides a detailed analysis of the UN's role in complex humanitarian emergencies, and it offers recommendations for how the UN can improve its response to these crises.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the legal framework for humanitarian action. It valuable resource for anyone who is interested in understanding the legal obligations of humanitarian actors.
Provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of humanitarian action. It valuable resource for anyone who is interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities facing humanitarian actors in the 21st century.
Provides a historical overview of humanitarian action. It useful resource for anyone who is interested in understanding the evolution of humanitarian principles and practices.
Provides a critical analysis of the politics of humanitarian aid. It valuable resource for anyone who is interested in understanding the political factors that shape humanitarian responses.
Save
Provides an overview of the economics of humanitarian action. It valuable resource for anyone who is interested in understanding the economic challenges and opportunities facing humanitarian actors.
Explores the moral dilemmas of humanitarian intervention, and it argues for a more nuanced and principled approach to intervention.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of humanitarian law, and it is an essential reference work for anyone working in the field of humanitarian response.
This guide provides practical advice for health professionals on how to respond to humanitarian emergencies. It covers a wide range of topics, including assessment, needs identification, and program design.
Examines the ethical, legal, and political dilemmas surrounding humanitarian intervention. It provides a comprehensive overview of the debates on intervention and the challenges of implementing humanitarian principles in practice.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuo6pw/humanitarian
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Effort
3 to 4 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructors
Jennifer Leaning
Michael VanRooyen
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Designed for practitioners and global citizens, the course aims to cultivate informed and aware individuals
Emphasizes ethical and professional principles in humanitarian response, providing a strong foundation for learners
Provides case studies involving major humanitarian crises, allowing learners to engage with real-life scenarios
Leverages the expertise of Harvard faculty and current practitioners, offering learners access to industry insights
Taught by Jennifer Leaning and Michael VanRooyen, recognized for their contributions to humanitarian initiatives
The course may be particularly relevant for individuals working in humanitarian aid or aspiring to pursue a career in the field
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