Intersectionality in Humanitarian Response: Just added empty words or the way for an impactful action?

Abstract: We are facing a continuous increase in humanitarian crises. All humanitarian emergencies affect People in Need differently. The wish for a more inclusive picture of the affected people suitable for humanitarian response is becoming more significant. The concept of intersectionality, in the sense of Crenshaw, promises to add precisely this perspective to humanitarian response. With the help of methods of content analyses, this thesis visualizes the main adaptation steps of intersectionality in humanitarian response: the definition phase within a base policy and the planning and utilizing phase of humanitarian activities. Due to this, the thesis aims to to outline the adaptation of intersectionality throughout humanitarian response processes using the lens of traveling theory. This is rounded up by allowing humanitarian practitioners, through semistructured interviews, to reflect on the status quo and see first-hand experiences of how intersectionality is adapted in humanitarian response, a perspective missing so far in academic discussions. The data illustrates that one of the main difficulties is defining intersectionality in humanitarian response and its distinction from gender mainstreaming. The lack of a clear definition of the concept is consequently leading to a lack of clarity in humanitarian response planning. The aim of a holistic, intersectional approach, as being able to disclose power struggles and oppression, still needs to be achieved. However, a strong wish to transform humanitarian response practice is visible.