Access to information during crises is a human right – and yet connectivity is not always prioritized in the humanitarian response.

This session explores how people affected by crises, when able to connect to the internet, not only access vital information but also experience improved wellbeing. From refugee campsite selection and bandwidth to community integration and affordability, our recent research investigates the many dimensions that shape Internet connectivity in crises, and the impact of connectivity on wellbeing. Our research has demonstrated, in a representative sample of a diverse camp population in Italy, that ownership of a mobile phone increased Internet connectivity via WiFi.

Moreover, we observed trends between daily access to WiFi in the past week and increased social support and perceived self-efficacy, as well as lower odds of depressive symptoms. In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, we will present lessons learned from Mercy Corps teams on the ground, from rapid information response through WiFi to business and education continuity. Through the session, participants will learn the key elements of the Humanitarian WiFi Guide, now in its first edition, as well as best practices for preserving connectivity in humanitarian crises during the Covid-19 pandemic.