Embedded Files
Since the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul in 2016, principles have been adopted aiming at a change of paradigm in order to respond better to humanitarian and peacebuilding needs. One of the encouraging ideas was that the divide between humanitarian, peacebuilding and development efforts should be reduced and that common objectives should lead to practical and programmatic linkages. In all cases, the importance to build on local initiatives and to bring local actors in co-leadership roles, is advocated, though not yet a reality on the ground.
The module aims to investigate how local actors can bridge the gaps between humanitarian, peacebuilding and development initiatives and how concretely the localisation and local turn agenda can be operationalised and programmed to shape a new humanitarian architecture, new standards and lead to sustainable solutions.
The course runs from September to December 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.
Course content
Course content
The course includes 6 key sessions:
Linking humanitarian action, peacebuilding and development
Localisation, local turn and the agenda for humanity
As local as possible, as international as necessary
Building on local knowledge and endogenous conflict management
Reinforce, do not replace: Strengthening local capacities and local mobilisation
Localisation and local turn in practice
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes
Demonstrate ability to undertake research and analyses of humanitarian and peacebuilding local contexts and local stakeholders’ analysis including assessing impacts of programming options on local dynamics.
Demonstrate depth and systematic understanding of local stakeholders and local knowledge, expertise and challenges to integrate them in conflict and post conflict programmes.
Develop innovative tools in order to better operationalize and programme localised and contextualised humanitarian and peacebuilding initiatives.
Why is this course unique?
Why is this course unique?
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.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
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.
Course fees
Course fees
For Credit: £1,145
Non-credit: £600
Application deadlines:
Credit rated: September 5th 2025
Non-credit rated (certificate of attendance): September 15th 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 5 September. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 5 September.
Non-credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 15 September. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 15 September.
Contact us
Contact us
If you have any enquiries about the course, please email us at: bpiquard@brookes.ac.uk
Report abuse