Humanitarian Action in Complex Emergencies

Course Description

The intent of the class is to introduce students to a broad range of research and writing that constitutes our knowledge on humanitarian action in complex emergencies, and to give the student the skills to read research and keep abreast of a rapidly evolving field. There is a strong emphasis on the practical application of this knowledge. The course simultaneously treats humanitarian action as a phenomenon to be understood and as a practice that urgently needs to be improved.This multi-disciplinary course will cover a broad range of subjects, and has a number of objectives. By the end of the course, students will be able to: Outline historical perspectives on humanitarian action; Describe and define the application of international humanitarian law, principles, and codes of conduct to humanitarian action in complex emergencies, and outline major debates surrounding these frameworks; Utilize the main analytical frameworks for addressing the protection of life, livelihoods, rights and safety of people caught in complex emergencies; Critically and quickly read, interpret and apply research on humanitarian action; Analyze the political economy of conflict and humanitarian assistance; Discuss the ethical and practical implications of incorporating human rights in humanitarian action; Utilize methodologies for improving the quality, effectiveness and accountability of humanitarian action; and Describe the evolving nature of conflict, crisis, and the architecture of the humanitarian system. This course is cross-listed with the The Fletcher School (DHP D230). Prerequisites: Graduate standing or instructor consent.

Basic Enrollment Requirements: Unofficial Transcript - Bachelor's + 3.0 GPA. You will be contacted after registration for required evidence of immunization. 

Instructor Approval: During registration, you will be asked to explain how you meet the pre-requisites for this course and to describe any relevant experience. The instructor will use this information to confirm your enrollment or will otherwise be in touch with you. 

Refund Policy: The refund policy for Courses at Tufts offerings is dependent on the course length. Please refer to the section details to confirm any exceptions to the standard refund policy. The refund policies are viewable here: https://universitycollege.tufts.edu/policies#Refunds 

Remission Eligible: Yes; first day of term; all university policies apply.