Adapt or surrender: The challenges of climate change for humanitarian action

In the frame of the interdisciplinary program in humanitarian action from the University of Geneva, a one-day conference is proposed on the theme climate change and humanitarian action.

Session 1: Climate Change: challenges to our knowledge base?
This session is dedicated to an overview of the influence of human activities on climate changes, and the economic impacts that are related to such changes.

Session 2: Climate Change: what are the challenges in the face of new threats?
Changes in the climate system pose a long-term threat to human societies, and pose numerous challenges to humanitarian organisations. What are the risks? What are the links between environmental factors and political instability, economic weakness, food insecurity and large–scale migrations? Which regions and countries face increased instability risks? Can scenarios be developed? Which adaptation strategies can be developed?

Session 3: Climate Change: what challenges exist for Humanitarian Action
In the face of new threats identified in Session 2, how do humanitarian organisations consider these challenges? How do humanitarian actors prepare to respond? What strategies are being developed by humanitarian organisations? A round table with various international organisations aims to propose ideas and strategies concerning their role when dealing with climate change.