We are living in an era of complex global health crises: climate-related disasters, conflicts and humanitarian emergencies, migrant and refugee surges, and outbreaks of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases are resulting in challenges we are not yet able to face. The health consequences are often not considered and managed under a disaster approach. Studying and managing disasters and crises with a strong focus on health will be of paramount importance during the next years. However, the number of policy makers, managers, practitioners, and research scientists with specific competencies in achieving this goal is currently very limited at global level.

EMDM aims to develop a new generation of disaster and humanitarian health professionals with advanced competencies for performing disaster and humanitarian health crisis-related management, research, and development. The program is designed to equip the students with a solid background in disaster medicine and humanitarian health, deepening their knowledge on scientific research. The program will help the students in developing competencies related to disaster medicine and health management, as well as abilities to conduct independent research, problem-solving and decision-making skills, under crisis situations.

EMDM has a flexible learning environment which creates an innovative approach to disaster education. We aim to provide a high-quality learning experience using the state-of-the-art of teaching and training methodologies, including technology-enhanced and problem-based learning, discussion-based and table-top exercises, virtual and augmented reality simulations, drills and field exercises.  

Over twenty years’ activity, across this comprehensive program, renowned Faculty members from more than 30 countries with different background and expertise inspired more than 600 participants, drawn from 89 countries, representing all the 6 continents. This worldly perspective and cultural diversity are reflected in all aspects of our program.

Our extensive and well-established links with United Nations agencies, governmental and non-governmental organizations, scientific societies, universities and research institutes, create an effective bridge between the academic world and the actual field work, enhancing future career opportunities in the disaster and humanitarian landscapes.

As Course Director, on behalf of the EMDM Strategic Management Board and the whole Faculty, I look forward to welcome you in the EMDM world, a place where you join a global network of professionals who share principles, concepts and visions in disaster medicine, a place where you attain a wider and more comprehensive view of disaster medicine as a global health science.

Luca Ragazzoni
EMDM Course Director