In the midst of armed conflicts, the delivery of humanitarian aid becomes a critical yet highly complex and perilous task. This lecture will delve into the multifaceted obstacles that impede the provision of vital assistance to affected populations. We will explore the legal, logistical, and ethical dimensions of humanitarian operations in war-torn regions, gaining insights into both the ground realities and the strategic considerations necessary for effective intervention.

In this lecture, we will look at a variety of regions, including Gaza, where the humanitarian aid provided to civilians entering has fallen well below the necessary levels. Restrictions on the entry of aid supplies, equipment, and personnel into Gaza have severely limited the ability to distribute aid effectively, and there is a notable absence of secure operational zones for humanitarian activities.

We will have 2 speakers at this event.

Talita Cetinoglu is an experienced academic and consultant with extensive expertise in global health, sexual and gender-based violence, and humanitarian response. Currently a University Lecturer at the University of Groningen since September 2019, she has previously held roles as a Teaching Assistant at The University of Manchester, and a consultant for the World Bank focusing on post-conflict women’s health in the Great Lakes region. Her career includes significant fieldwork with the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières, where she led programs on women’s protection and emergency health across multiple countries.

Danielle Brouwer is a seasoned communications professional currently serving as Senior Spokesperson at Rode Kruis Nederland since April 2023. With a strong background in public relations, she previously held the role of Spokesperson for Climate, Sustainability, Food & Agriculture, and International Affairs at Rabobank from September 2021 to March 2023. Danielle also spent over five years at D66, where she was an Online Spokesperson and Press Officer for the Tweede Kamerfractie, and worked closely with prominent figures like Sigrid Kaag and Rob Jetten. Additionally, she has international experience as an advisor for the Africa Liberal Network.