The topic of the symposium is "Mental Health in Humanitarian Action".

The next Humanitarian Symposium Munich (HSM) will be held on Saturday, 13 February 2027, starting at 9:00, CET, in the Hörsaal at the LMU Kinderklinik, Lindwurmstraße 4, 80337 Münich.

This year's Symposium explores one of the most critical yet often underprioritized dimensions of humanitarian action: mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). Across humanitarian crises, mental health shapes individual recovery, community resilience, and the effectiveness of humanitarian responses. Bringing together researchers and practitioners, the symposium examines how evidence-based psychological approaches can be meaningfully integrated into humanitarian programming—from emergency response to long-term recovery.

The programme addresses a broad range of contexts and challenges, including post-conflict recovery, the psychological burden experienced by humanitarian personnel, and the specific mental health needs of military and civilian populations affected by conflict. Particular attention is given to the role of MHPSS in rebuilding social cohesion, supporting vulnerable groups, and strengthening resilience in fragile settings through integrated, community-based approaches.

Reflecting a One Health perspective, the symposium highlights the interconnectedness of human well-being, community systems, and the broader environments in which humanitarian interventions take place. Sessions will explore emerging approaches to addressing continuous traumatic stress in protracted crises, trauma-informed interventions for conflict-affected individuals, and practical strategies for embedding mental health care within large-scale humanitarian programmes rather than treating it as a standalone service.

The symposium will take place in presenter-hybrid-format, where in presence as well as online invited speakers will present their work and expertise on the topic throughout a full day program.

Participants can only join the symposium in presence as the organizers intend to facilitate personal interaction. Individuals that are residing outside Europe can ask for exceptional participation online.

Additionally, different Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) will be present with information booths in the symposium's exhibition area, which provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences as well as to get in touch with a great variety of institutions.

HSM 2027 is applying for CME credits by the Bavarian Medical Chamber.

NOT OPENED

The registration for the symposium will be open from 04 August 2026 to 31 January 2026; an early bird fee will apply for registrations prior to 31 December 2026.

Early bird registration, from 04 August to 31 December 2026: Students 20 €, Other Participants 40 €. Regular registration, from 01 January to 31 January 2027: Students 30 €, Other Participants 60 €.

For online participation (this only applies to people residing outside Europe during HSM)

Only regular registration, from 04 August 2026 to 31 January 2027: Students 10 €, Other Participants 20 €.