International Humanitarian City
HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein eloquently stated "Humanity is all about giving; it’s also about enabling those who want to give." On Tuesday October 13th 2009, students enrolled in the ISS 315 Global Diversity & Interdependence Course and select faculty and staff were granted an opportunity to not only become more aware and knowledgeable about the humanitarian plight around the world, but also to become empowered with a plan of action in the global attempt to combat extreme poverty, one of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals by the year 2015. A field visit to the International Humanitarian City in Dubai was organized that elaborated on IHC’s mission, members, functions, facilities and services. It was established as a global humanitarian and aid hub to facilitate aid and development efforts by providing local and international humanitarian actors with facilities and services specifically designed to meet their needs. Leveraging the proven Dubai free zone model, IHC addresses the specific needs of the humanitarian aid and development community, while grouping them in a secure environment that fosters partnerships, social responsibility and global change. With over 50 members, MSU students and staff were fortunate to have representatives from one of the largest and most active member - the UN World Food Program (WFP). WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide. In emergencies, they get food to where it is needed, saving the lives of victims of war, civil conflict and natural disasters. In 2009 they aim to reach more than 100 million people with food assistance in 74 different countries.
One student’s reflections stated, “All in all, this trip really opened my eyes and made me see the ultimate true story that I never fully understood. Thanks to this presentation and tour, I will now try my best to raise awareness of these great organizations and their tireless efforts. I will spread the word to all my peers and friends in the hope that this will only give back something so small to work that is so big which is performed by the brave WFP staff. In addition, this trip made me appreciate what I have and taught me how to not ever take things for granted.”