The aim of this module is to examine: 1) The dynamic nature of conflict, risk, hazard, and disaster, and related complexities within the current context, taking into account global trends; 2) The changing nature of humanitarian response to conflict and protracted crises; and 3) Who does humanitarian work, from community first responders, to host communities and local and global organizations, to militaries.
We will explore the ethical and moral dilemmas, theory, and practice of humanitarianism. Throughout the course students will develop their understanding of the core concepts and debates surrounding humanitarianism in development and international relations studies. Theoretical concepts will be applied to examples of aid and intervention in sub-Saharan Africa, Kosovo, Somalia and today's War in Syria. The course will provide students with opportunities to apply concepts to real-world cases and to give students an understanding of how past humanitarian action shapes choices during contemporary crises.
This course is reading intensive. You are expected to have read the assigned texts, and be prepared to discuss the readings in class. Assignments and class materials are designed to provide students with theoretical and applied analytical and research skills.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Critically analyse conflict and crisis dynamics using conflict and crisis analysis tools.
Demonstrate in-depth understanding of the nature of conflicts, risks, hazards, and disasters and political instability in the contemporary world.
Describe conditions under which humanitarian interference or intervention occur, and critically analyse their strengths and weaknesses.
Assess how global and local actors shape and shaped by humanitarian power structures.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
One 4,000 word essay, worth 100% of the total module mark.
