Humanitarian Diplomacy Course: Reports on Action
Humanitarian Diplomacy Course: Reports on Action
Date
2022
Authors
Erfani-Ghadimi, Nooshin
Dinnen, Mark
Elseroad, Dave
Whiting, Claire
Powell, Keith
Wood, Jonathan
Sarsfield Collins, Louise
Ferrario, Giorgio
van der Berg, Marieke
Maillot, Alice
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
DiploFoundation
Abstract
Description
DiploFoundation is celebrating ten years of the Humanitarian Diplomacy course, offered in partnership with the
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). This booklet marks that celebration with the
publication of 23 of the best research papers submitted by course participants over those years.
Each paper is the culmination of the study which takes place in the course. The essence of the papers is that they
must research the place humanitarian diplomacy has in searching for solutions to a researched issue. They add to
eight weeks of work on modules and assignments on the different aspects of humanitarian diplomacy, beginning
with an examination of the definition of the term, contained in the policy document adopted in 2009 by IFRC’s Governing
Board.
This helps the participants use this all-encompassing definition of humanitarian diplomacy as an action-oriented
tool which humanitarian diplomats can use in any situation. It includes, of course, action in conflict situations, but the
bulk of the participants’ research topics are in non-conflict situations, such as disaster management, public health,
migration and capacity-building.
A recurring theme is the relevance of humanitarian diplomacy to work with affected communities. It helps build the
capacity of organisations to strengthen their relationships with both the communities and the senior people who
make decisions and lead opinion.
The 23 papers in this booklet are selected from nearly 600 that were submitted by course participants from 122
countries. The basic requirement for the papers is that they cannot exceed 5,000 words and they should be written at
approximately the standard that is expected of a university paper for a master’s or graduate diploma course.
Papers, as well as the main written work for the course, can be in English, French, or Spanish. Tutors with the requisite
language skills are provided to help participants with their work.