Peshawar (Agencies): The Maraka Humanitarian Observatory (MHO) and the Department of Political Science at the University of Peshawar jointly organized a hybrid seminar on April 8, 2025, titled “Legal and Policy Frameworks in the Context of Humanitarian Response.” The event featured renowned humanitarian law expert Dr. Clea Kahn as the keynote speaker.
The seminar brought together academicians, research scholars, and human rights activists to discuss the vital role of legal and policy frameworks in ensuring effective humanitarian responses. Dr. Shahida Aman, Chairperson of the Department of Political Science, warmly welcomed Dr. Kahn and the participants.
In her presentation, Dr. Kahn—who has extensive experience working with the United Nations, international NGOs, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)—underscored the critical need to integrate legal protections into all aspects of humanitarian work. She elaborated on key international laws, including Refugee Law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), emphasizing the importance of safeguarding civilians and regulating interventions during crises.
Dr. Kahn stressed the necessity of incorporating protection mechanisms directly into relief efforts and urged for stronger collaboration among humanitarian stakeholders to ensure the safety of non-combatants and peaceful conflict resolution.
Following her address, the seminar opened for an interactive discussion and Q&A session. Dr. Noreen Naseer concluded the event with a formal vote of thanks.
Further details about the event and related activities can be found on the MHO website: https://marakahumanitarianobservatory.com/