We are delighted to share that UCL School of Management PhD candidate Shivaang Sharma recently presented his research at the Humanitarian Networks Partnership Week (HNPW) hosted by the United Nations.

During his panel presentation, Shivaang presented insights based on his collaborations with humanitarian organisations, digital platforms and United Nations agencies. His work reveals the core challenges facing HAI teams in extreme contexts.

On the day, Shivaang explored a range of key topics, including:

• Balancing Trust and Decision-Making in a Polarised Climate: In a polarised climate—whether it’s the East versus West divide or the split between AI-averse users and AI advocates—participatory design helps rebuild trust and supports collective decision-making.
• Localisation and Contextual Sensitivities: Integrating local insights with community co-design practices fosters operational (not just strategic!) alignment and ensures AI tools are sustainably scaled in data-sensitive contexts.
• Closing ‘Rifts’ Among Stakeholders: Divergent expectations, values, and experiences with AI can create ‘rifts’ that need to be identified and collaboratively resolved.

Find out more about the UN’s Humanitarian Networks Partnership Week (HNPW).