Learn about the principles of humanitarian response to modern emergencies, the challenges faced in the field today and what we can do to alleviate human suffering.

In recent years global humanitarian crises have reached unprecedented levels: From the Syrian refugee crisis to the West Africa Ebola outbreak, humanitarian emergencies are on the rise around the globe. In 2019, over 130 million people are predicted to need humanitarian aid.

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This free online course in Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster is provided by Harvard University as part of the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative. The 5-week learning opportunity is taught in English and will require approximately 3 to 4 hours per week to be completed.

The self-paced course is embedded in the context of recent and ongoing humanitarian crises. Case studies of humanitarian response in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Somalia, the Balkans and Zoma (Zaire) are used to examine trends in humanitarian action. The course is suitable for participants who have either professional or personal interests in these issues.

By taking this course you will develop an understanding of the historical and legal framework of humanitarian aid, you will learn how to apply the underlying principles of humanitarian response and what conflicts may arise during humanitarian crisis. Together with learners around the world you will identify trends that affect humanitarian work and discuss how humanitarian work needs to adapt to be able to rapidly respond to emerging challenges humanity is facing today.

Instructors for the course are Jennifer Leaning, director of the François-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights at Harvard University, and Michael VanRooyen, director of the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative at Harvard University.

For an additional fee, participants have the opportunity to obtain a verified certificate by Harvard university. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

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