Tragedy? When humanitarian language becomes oppressive Rethinking Humanitarianism

Is it problematic to call human suffering a "tragedy"? Even well-intentioned humanitarian language can harm, says Heidi Mogstad, senior researcher at the Chr. Michelsen Institute in Norway. She argues that the language humanitarians use can perpetuate systems of violence that cause crises. In this episode, Mogstad gives examples of counter-productive language, and discusses ways to improve. Guests: Heidi Mogstad, senior researcher at the Chr. Michelsen Institute in Norway. Got a question or feedback? Email podcast@thenewhumanitarian.org or post on social media using the hashtag . Show Notes: Oppressive Language and Humanitarian Complicity: Reflections on Gaza and European Border Violence

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Tragedy? When humanitarian language becomes oppressive Rethinking Humanitarianism is an episode from The New Humanitarian by The New Humanitarian.

This episode is 29:21 long.

This episode was published on Mar 12, 2026.

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