DIPLOMA IN
HUMANITARIAN
ACTION

DIPLOMA IN HUMANITARIAN ACTION

Course Information:

Max. Length:

600 Hours

Credits (ECTS):

30 Credits

Language:

English or French

Type:

Online or Blended

Assessment:

MCQ

Award:

GSBE or University of Rhone

Price:

CHF 2000

Course description:

This intensive diploma program provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex landscape of humanitarian action, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to humanitarian crises around the globe. The program explores the historical evolution of humanitarian principles, analyzes contemporary challenges facing humanitarian actors, and develops practical skills in disaster relief, conflict resolution, human rights advocacy, and development cooperation. A core focus is on the ethical considerations and legal frameworks that guide humanitarian interventions, ensuring participants are well-versed in the principles of impartiality, neutrality, and humanity. Leveraging Switzerland’s longstanding tradition of humanitarian aid and its hosting of numerous international humanitarian organizations, this program offers a unique learning experience. Participants will benefit from direct access to leading humanitarian actors, gaining firsthand insights into the practical realities of humanitarian work. Switzerland’s commitment to humanitarian principles and its role as a global hub for humanitarian action make it an ideal location for this specialized diploma.

The Importance of Switzerland for this Course:

Switzerland’s deep-rooted commitment to humanitarian action and its prominent role in the international humanitarian system make it an unparalleled location for studying this field. Several factors contribute to this unique position:

• Longstanding Tradition: Switzerland has a long and distinguished history of humanitarian engagement, dating back to the establishment of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This tradition is deeply ingrained in Swiss society and its foreign policy.

• Hub for Humanitarian Organizations: Geneva is a global center for humanitarian action, hosting numerous international organizations, including the ICRC, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the World Health Organization (WHO), and many others. This concentration of expertise provides students with unparalleled access to key humanitarian actors.

• Neutrality and Impartiality: Switzerland’s policy of neutrality and its commitment to impartiality are fundamental principles of humanitarian action. Studying in Switzerland provides a unique perspective on the importance of these principles in humanitarian interventions.

• International Cooperation: Switzerland actively participates in international humanitarian efforts, collaborating with other states, international organizations, and NGOs to address humanitarian crises worldwide. This engagement provides students with insights into the complexities of international humanitarian cooperation.

• Academic Excellence: Swiss universities offer high-quality education in fields related to humanitarian action, including international relations, law, public health, and development studies. This academic strength provides a solid foundation for the diploma program.

• Practical Experience: Switzerland’s hosting of numerous humanitarian organizations offers opportunities for internships, field visits, and networking with professionals working in the humanitarian sector. This practical exposure enhances the learning experience and prepares students for real-world challenges.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the history, principles, and ethical frameworks of humanitarian action.

• Analyze the root causes and complex dynamics of humanitarian crises.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of different humanitarian interventions and strategies.

• Develop practical skills in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

• Understand the legal and human rights frameworks relevant to humanitarian action.

• Apply principles of humanitarian assistance in diverse contexts, including conflict zones and natural disasters.

• Manage humanitarian projects and programs effectively.

• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including international organizations, NGOs, and local communities.

• Navigate the logistical, financial, and security challenges of humanitarian operations.

• Advocate for humanitarian principles and promote respect for human rights.

• Understand the role of Switzerland in the global humanitarian system.

Modules:

The Swiss Diploma in Humanitarian Action program consists of the following modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Humanitarian Action:

• History and evolution of humanitarian principles and practice.

• International humanitarian law and human rights frameworks.

• Ethical considerations in humanitarian interventions.

• The role of humanitarian actors: States, international organizations, NGOs.

Module 2: Humanitarian Crises and Challenges:

• Causes and consequences of humanitarian crises: Conflicts, natural disasters, displacement.

• Vulnerable populations: Refugees, internally displaced persons, women, children.

• The impact of climate change on humanitarian needs.

• Complex emergencies and protracted crises.

Module 3: Disaster Preparedness and Response:

• Disaster risk reduction and management.

• Early warning systems and needs assessments.

• Search and rescue operations.

• Emergency shelter and relief distribution.

Module 4: Humanitarian Assistance and Protection:

• Providing food, water, sanitation, and healthcare in humanitarian settings.

• Protection of civilians in armed conflict.

• Addressing gender-based violence and sexual exploitation.

• Supporting psychosocial well-being and mental health.

Module 5: Humanitarian Coordination and Collaboration:

• The humanitarian cluster system and inter-agency coordination.

• Working with local communities and national authorities.

• Building partnerships with NGOs and other stakeholders.

• Managing information and communication in humanitarian operations.

Module 6: Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management:

• Procurement and distribution of relief supplies.

• Managing transportation and warehousing in challenging environments.

• Security considerations in humanitarian logistics.

• Ethical sourcing and supply chain transparency.

Module 7: Humanitarian Financing and Resource Mobilization:

• Funding mechanisms for humanitarian action.

• Budgeting and financial management for humanitarian projects.

• Fundraising and resource mobilization strategies.

• Accountability and transparency in humanitarian finance.

Module 8: The Swiss Humanitarian Landscape:

• Switzerland’s humanitarian policy and engagement.

• Key Swiss humanitarian actors: Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), ICRC, Swiss NGOs.

• Switzerland’s role in international humanitarian cooperation.

• Opportunities for internships and careers in the Swiss humanitarian sector.

This program structure provides a balanced curriculum, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enhanced by the unique opportunities presented by studying in Switzerland, a global hub for humanitarian action. It is designed to equip participants with the expertise needed to contribute effectively to humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Our Accreditations

Please check our accreditation page for further detail

Fees and Scholarship

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