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865-0064-00L 2 Credits MSC , WBZ , NDS D-GESS

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Decolonizing Aid

Lecturers & Examiners: Kimon Schneider, Dr. Medinat Malefakis

Only for MAS/CAS in Development and Cooperation students, as well as specialists with at least 24 months of practical experience in international cooperation. Doctoral students dealing with empirical research in the area of development and cooperation (EZA) may be admitted "sur Dossier". Registration only through the NADEL administration office.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:56

Abstract

The course is designed to increase awareness of how cultural perceptions and power structures have influenced society and our understanding of and practice in aid. It promotes alternatives to aid as linear and progressive Eurocentric narrative. The course draws on different theoretical perspectives and scrutinizes practical examples of aid interventions and similar initiatives.

Objective

The course goes beyond awareness raising of personal cultural characteristics and recognizing cultural values within development concepts. It unfolds traces of colonialism and power structures in day to day live and the aid industry. It promotes searching and initiating alternatives to aid as a Eurocentric narrative. Participants get familiar with different theoretical perspectives on decoloniality and scrutinize practical examples of aid interventions and similar initiatives.

Content

- Decolonialism key terms and concepts - Conceptions of and alternatives to development (cooperation) - Cultural (self-)awareness, diversity - The role of culture in aid / development cooperation - Implications of decolonialism for aid policy making and practice

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC , WBZ , NDS
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: ungraded semester performance

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Decolonizing Aid Block course: 13.11. – 17.11.2023	No time listed	40 h semesterly

Offered In

Comparative and International Studies Master
- Electives
MAS in Development and Cooperation (The compulsory courses of NADEL are accessible only for students of the MAS in Development and Cooperation and for qualified employees with at least two years experience in development cooperation and a Master's level or equivalent level of education as recognized by ETH. PhD students doing empirical research in development cooperation may be admitted "sur Dossier". The elective courses are open to master students of the ETH with registration/ waiting list. MAS students do have priority.)
- Advanced Training Courses
CAS in Development and Cooperation (Take place each spring semester and every second autumn semester (odd years).)
- Module