Taster Session: Why Do We Need Humanitarians Anyway?

Why do we need humanitarians anyway?

by Lisa Guppy

Drawing on over a decade of field experience across Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Middle East, Lisa Guppy discusses how humanitarian work shapes global responses to crises—from natural disasters to complex emergencies. 

This taster session offers insights into topics covered in our Global Humanitarian Studies BSc, where you’ll learn about the evolving nature of humanitarian work, from immediate crisis response to long-term development solutions. It is aimed at prospective students interested in making a real difference in disaster-affected communities and understanding the complexities of international humanitarian action.

The session covers:

• The cluster approach to humanitarian response, including food, water and sanitation, shelter and health
• Protection services and digital humanitarianism
• Career pathways across government, United Nations agencies, Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, NGOs and private sector
• How humanitarian skills transfer to other sectors
• The impact of inequality on humanitarian needs, including in wealthy nations

Study at UCL Risk and Disaster Reduction

Interested in undergraduate or postgraduate study in risk, disaster reduction, and humanitarian action?

The RDR Virtual Taster Sessions provide prospective students with a taste of what it’s like to study in the UCL Department of Risk and Disaster Reduction (RDR). Our taster sessions are free to attend, and you can sign up for as many as you like, depending on your interest areas. Sessions are led by RDR academics, and you will have the opportunity to engage directly with our internationally renowned experts.

Apply for Global Humanitarian Studies BSc

Watch the recording

• Watch on UCL Mediacentral
• Watch on YouTube