Covid-19 and the future of digital humanitarianism

Digital tools and approaches are at the forefront of global responses to Covid-19, including in humanitarian contexts. While it’s too early to tell whether the initial hype around the potential of digital tools to solve new challenges has lived up to the reality, several initiatives, such as mobile money to deliver cash assistance, have proven their ability to work at scale in humanitarian responses.

Yet stubborn ‘digital divides’ between people with and without the means to effectively use these new technologies are widening. Digital interventions also come with new risks to affected individuals and communities that aid providers must navigate. With digital tools and systems designed and used now likely to outlast the pandemic, these actions will have a lasting relevance, and makes careful consideration of their uses critical.

Chaired by Barnaby Willitts-King, HPG, and insights from Zoe Hamilton, GSMA, the panel will include:

• Mahamud Abdirahman – Director of Business Development and International Relations Division, Telesom
• Justin Colvard – Country Director, Mercy Corps Haiti
• Adelina Kamal – Executive Director, ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre)