This module aims to equip learners with a sound understanding of the complexity of conflicts. Stress is put particularly on the understanding of violence, its different forms and impacts on programmes. It also seeks to explore coping strategies and adaptations of local populations and responses of the international community.
This module aims also at providing learners with analytical tools to comprehend better the contexts of conflict and to make adequate assessments of the challenges faced by practitioners. Based on different paradigms of humanitarianism, conflict-sensitive approaches such as ‘do no harm’ or ‘better programming initiatives’ are explored to ensure that programming does not fuel conflicts and when possible, enhances conflict transformation. It aims therefore at analysing critically the links between humanitarian action and peacebuilding initiatives.
The course runs from January to April each year.
It is developed over 8 weeks for non-credit and 11 weeks for those taking the course for credits.
This includes 2 reading weeks, 6 interactive weeks and for those taking the course for credits 3 weeks for finalising assessments.
Most of the course is asynchronous except for a one hour per week webinar. It is designed to be accessible for learners working full time.
Designed and delivered jointly by the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) of Oxford Brookes University and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding courses give you an unique access to resources, experts and support
from both institutions.
For those following the credit-rated route, credit from this module can be counted towards
the the PGCert/MA Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding after completion.
The course includes 6 key sessions:
Introduction to humanitarian action in conflict
Understanding violence and conflict:
Impacts and responses of affected populations:
Conflict sensitive approaches to humanitarian action:
Conflict analysis and conflict mapping:
Linking conflict sensitive programming and conflict transformation
Perform conflict analysis and demonstrate expertise in the use of conflict mapping and conflict sensitivity programming tools.
Assess rigorously and critically, using a large range of concepts and theories, contexts of intervention, conflict impacts, adaptations of populations and responses of the international community.
With critical awareness, undertake analysis of complex or contradictory data related to humanitarian and peacebuilding contexts and actions. Communicate the outcomes effectively.
Demonstrate a high level of independence and self-reflective skills in mainstreaming conflict sensitivity
The module is taught by expert practitioners and researchers working on culture sensitivity in conflict and post-conflict settings
You will have an opportunity to interact and learn with peers and expert facilitators from across the world.
Approaches to teaching and learning are designed to support those studying alongside full- or part-time work and other commitments
The course is offered for credit or on a non-credit basis. The non-credit rated route leads to a certificate of attendance. The credit-rated route requires learners to complete assessments, leading to a transcript of record and the credits can be accumulated to reach an award.
This module forms part of the PGCert/MA Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding. For those following the credit-rated route, credit from this module can be counted towards the PGCert/MA if you decide to continue your studies after completion. The Gcert and Ma is co-delivered with the United Nations Institute for training and Research (UNITAR)
The course is run by the Queen's Award winning Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP), a multidisciplinary centre founded in 1985, that brings together academics, development practitioners and policy makers to develop reflective practice.
Oxford Brookes University is one of the UK's leading modern universities and enjoys an international reputation for teaching excellence and innovation.
This course is for practitioners already working in the humanitarian, conflict transformation
and peacebuilding fields and in related areas (diplomacy, journalism…) who wish to continue their professional development,
and practitioners working in other fields interested in exploring opportunities in these areas.
Angelo Gianturco Colleta
'As an NGO worker, the Conflict Sensitivity module opened my eyes to the many ways a relief delivery can be better designed and optimized to widen its reach.
The analyzed tools and study cases impacted my perceptions of a conflict, offering a broader view of its causes, impacts, and risks. The gained knowledge helps me and the organization to develop better responses and stronger liaisons with stakeholders and communities.'
For Credit: £1,145
Non-credit: £600
Application deadlines:
Credit rated: January 10th 2025
Non-credit rated (certificate of attendance): January 20th 2025
Cancellation policy
In case the course is cancelled, all registered participants will receive a 100% refund.
In case you need to cancel your booking, the following will apply:
Credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 10 January. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 10 January.
Non-credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 20 January. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 20 January.
If you have any enquiries about the course, please email us at: bpiquard@brookes.ac.uk