How do ordinary people respond to crises, support their communities, and practice everyday humanitarianism?
This podcast explores the realities of humanitarian action in Tanzania beyond traditional aid organizations. Hosted by Alexander Maxelon, this series brings together researchers, policymakers, and community members to discuss insights from Everyday Humanitarianism in Tanzania (EHTZ)—a Danida-funded research project led by Prof. Lisa Ann Richey in collaboration with scholars from Copenhagen Business School (CBS), the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Roskilde University (RUC), Lund University, and the London School of Economics (LSE).
Through expert interviews and fieldwork reflections, we dive into topics such as elite giving, refugee support, disaster response, and the future of humanitarian research. Join us as we unpack what it means to help—and be helped—in everyday life.
Stay updated and learn more by visiting our website and following us on social media!
How do ordinary people respond to crises, support their communities, and practice everyday humanitarianism?
This podcast explores the realities of humanitarian action in Tanzania beyond traditional aid organizations. Hosted by Alexander Maxelon, this series brings together researchers, policymakers, and community members to discuss insights from Everyday Humanitarianism in Tanzania (EHTZ)—a Danida-funded research project led by Prof. Lisa Ann Richey in collaboration with scholars from Copenhagen Business School (CBS), the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Roskilde University (RUC), Lund University, and the London School of Economics (LSE).
Through expert interviews and fieldwork reflections, we dive into topics such as elite giving, refugee support, disaster response, and the future of humanitarian research. Join us as we unpack what it means to help—and be helped—in everyday life.
Stay updated and learn more by visiting our website and following us on social media!

What is everyday humanitarianism—and why do we study it in the Tanzanian context?
In this first episode, we introduce the concept at the heart of EHTZ. From defining what counts as a crisis to understanding who gives, we explore how everyday acts of help challenge dominant narratives about humanitarianism.
To discuss this, our host Alex Maxelon is joined by Prof. Lisa Ann Richey, Principal Investigator (PI) of the EHTZ project and Professor of Globalization at Copenhagen Business School (CBS). With an interdisciplinary background in political science, anthropology, and media studies, Lisa investigates the international politics of aid. She is the author of several books, including Batman Saves the Congo and Brand Aid: Shopping Well to Save the World.
For a deeper dive into the themes of this episode, we recommend:
📄 Richey, L. A. (2018). Conceptualizing “Everyday Humanitarianism”: Ethics, Affects, and Practices of Contemporary Global Helping. New Political Science, 40(4), 625–639.
This podcast is part of the Everyday Humanitarianism in Tanzania (EHTZ) research project—a collaboration between universities in Denmark and Tanzania. Funded by Danida and led by Professor Lisa Ann Richey, the project explores how ordinary people engage in humanitarian action. Learn more at everydayhumanitarianismintanzania.org.
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