Covid-19 and Health

The CSIS Humanitarian Agenda researches and facilitates dialogue among humanitarian leaders on overcoming challenges to humanitarian priorities during the Covid-19 pandemic

Global health experts have warned that the continued destruction of environmental resources, a growing global population and the impact of climate change, global disease, epidemics and pandemics will become an increasingly frequent reality. The Covid-19 is an early indication of the human cost of such a reality. The pandemic has generated unprecedented challenges to global efforts to provide life-saving assistance to vulnerable populations around the world. In addition to the challenge of combating the virus itself, the massive economic disruption has contributed to rising poverty, increasing overall humanitarian need. While working to respond, aid organizations face a funding shortfall, supply chain disruptions, and Covid-19 containment measures that further inhibit humanitarian access.

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Humanitarian Impacts of Escalated Violence in Gaza

Jacob Kurtzer, Director and Senior Fellow of the CSIS Humanitarian Agenda, spoke with Dr. Elizabeth Campbell, Director of the UNRWA Representative Office in Washington, and Dr. Zaher Sahloul, President of MedGlobal, on the humanitarian impact of the airstrikes in Gaza, as well as the role of the humanitarian community in response.

Event by Jacob Kurtzer , Dr. Elizabeth Campbell , and Dr. Zaher Sahloul — May 19, 2021

The Brewing Storm in Jordan’s Oasis of Calm

Jordan is now facing a threefold challenge—Covid-19, rising unemployment, and a deteriorating situation for refugees—that threatens the country’s stability.

Commentary by Erol Yayboke and Shannon McKeown — March 11, 2021

Covid-19: Compounding 10 Years of Health Crises in Syria

The Covid-19 pandemic in Syria has created a crisis within a crisis. With a destroyed health system and deeply vulnerable population, Syria’s dire humanitarian situation is now compounded by Covid-19.

Commentary by Amany Qaddour and Kat Fallon — February 18, 2021

Online Event: Humanitarian Aid and the Biden Administration

This virtual event will explore different perspectives on the most pressing humanitarian issues of the day and the internal and external roadblocks the Biden administration must navigate as they seek to improve humanitarian outcomes.

Event by Jacob Kurtzer , Tjada D'Oyen McKenna , Dave Harden , and Obi Anyadike — February 4, 2021

Experts React: Urban Legends

The most pressing foreign policy challenges will likely unfold in rapidly urbanizing landscapes. By 2050, over two-thirds of the world population will live in urban areas, presenting challenges and opportunities for political, security, and development stakeholders.

Commentary by Caitlin Welsh , Erol Yayboke , Jacob Kurtzer , and Judd Devermont — December 8, 2020

Online Event: Crisis in Northern Mozambique

Please join us for a discussion on the conflict in Mozambique’s northern provinces, the implications for regional security, and steps the international community can take to respond to the humanitarian needs.

Event by Jacob Kurtzer , Mamadou Sow , and Emilia Columbo — July 28, 2020