Instructor: Warren Acuncius
2 credits, Autumn 2020
Earthquakes in Haiti and Nepal, conflict in Syria, and Ebola outbreaks in West Africa and Congo are just a few examples of humanitarian emergencies the global community has sought to address through coordinated disaster relief efforts. This course looks at the evolution of humanitarian assistance and the guiding principles of a growing humanitarian community made up of non-governmental organizations, governments, international organizations, the private sector, and philanthropic donors. Sample discussion topics will include humanitarian principles, motivations for relief, aid delivery and logistics, global health challenges, refugees/internally displaced persons, disaster risk reduction, civil-military coordination, and the many roadblocks that stand in the way of effective humanitarian response. The course will include traditional lecture, guest lectures from leaders in the humanitarian community, scenario based exercises, and assignments that will prepare the student for a broader understanding of the disaster relief community.