The module aims to provide students with a rich understanding of the rationale for contemporary global humanitarian interventions. Climate Change, global migration, and protracted conflicts have all contributed to unprecedented levels of global humanitarian need. The impact of these crises/disasters, together with our recent experiences of the COVID 19 pandemic, demonstrate the growing levels of global fragility and vulnerability. On successful completion of the module, students should be able to comprehend and critically assess the humanitarian crises that are appearing on national media with greater frequency. To this end, the module describes the origins, values, and guiding principles governing humanitarian interventions. It introduces the laws and norms regulating humanitarian intervention. Special attention is given to contemporary issues and challenges facing disparate humanitarian stakeholders in their attempt to save lives, alleviate suffering, and support disaster-affected populations to live with dignity. Students are introduced to Irish agencies and organisations that are active in global humanitarian interventions.
This introductory module includes the following content:
• Defining humanitarian action - what it is and what it is not.
• The history and evolution of humanitarian action.
• The ‘International Humanitarian System’ – how it is governed and managed.
• International and national legal frameworks shaping humanitarian interventions.
• Geopolitical issues and challenges for contemporary humanitarian action.
• Cultural and social issues to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of humanitarian action.
• Contemporary humanitarian interventions and impacts – will vary each year e.g. Gaza, Ukraine, South Sudan, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons.
• The Irish Humanitarian System – introduction to some of the main NGOs.