In this minor, you will explore human security not just as a theoretical and policy making framework but as a lived reality. Once you have learned how human security has shifted the perspective from state-centric security to security that centers around people and communities, you will experience what it means to put human security into practice. Through scenario-based exercises, a one-day Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT), and visits to a refugee center visit and offices of NGOs and international organizations, you will grapple with the practical challenges of protecting and supporting people in crisis situations. Equipped with tools to understand and address complex security challenges, you will learn how to design and implement strategies that are prevention-oriented, comprehensive, and put people at the center, leaving no one behind.

First conceptualized by the United Nations Development Program in 1994, Human security offers an alternative approach, with practical tools and methodologies, that can complement or replace existing practices and security strategies. The minor covers a wide range of issues such as disaster management, migration, technology and threats to democracy, militarization and the war on drugs. We question current security responses and power relations to aim for sustainable and equitable solutions to help protect and empower people at risk, including the most vulnerable communities.

 Learning objectives:

1. The student can contrast the human security approach with conventional state-centric approaches in tackling past and current problems, including health, food, economic, political and conflict related issues presented in the minor.
2. The student can apply formats and strategies, based on public engagement or policy change, to address current global and local security issues.
3. The student can demonstrate critical and conceptual thinking on local and global cases and phenomena, based on theories and frameworks, including from the United Nations organizations and security and development organizations, taught in the minor.
4. The student can suggest security management strategies for human rights, development, and humanitarian aid workers and volunteers, using risk assessment and other relevant security tools, presented in the minor.
5. The student can distinguish the different and interconnected roles of various stakeholders, including civil society, government and policy makers, security sector agents, and private actors, in security related issues.

The student can conduct research, individually or with others, based on participatory methods, as taught in the minor, on a selected local human security issue.

SSMS students and others from the (BRV) faculty are welcome to apply. Additionally, 5 spots will be available for KOM students. A written application is required for all students.

Entry requirements:

• Completed Application
• Good command of English (oral and written)

Mix of academic peer-reviewed academic articles, grey literature (United Nations, World Bank, etc.), media reports and audio-visual materials.

Term(s): Block 2/ semester 1

Scheduling: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Friday

Testing: indicate:

• Written exam (30%), minimum pass rate: 5,5
• Portfolio: written report and creative presentation (50%), minimum pass rate 5,5
• Oral exam (20%), minimum pass rate 5,5
• Security management course (P/F)
• Class participation (P/F)

Planning of the testing (per partial test when applicable):

Exam: week 5

Security management course (online): week 7

Portfolio: week 8

Oral exam: week 8

Teaching methods:

Lectures and guest lectures on content-based topics

Workshop sessions

Discussions (in-class and online)

Site visits (AZC and NGOs)

1 day Hostile Environment Awareness Training

Study load (128 hours):

• Lectures and guest contributions (56)
• Workshops, exercises, simulations (32)
• Training (14)
• Visits and Events (26)