Humanitarian AI Learning Group
This group engages with other networks (NetHope, ALNAP, CDAC) to collaborate, co-convene and support work related to greater accountability to affected people in conflict and crisis contexts for AI; to work to open space for voice and choice around the use of affected people’s data for AI decision-making and algorithm training; and to discuss the role of corporate data capture in crisis and humanitarian contexts.
Currently, the Humanitarian AI Learning Group is led by Quito Tsui.
Meet the lead
Quito Tsui (she/her) is a researcher and writer with expertise on technology in the context of the humanitarian and development sectors. She has a keen interest in the development of a technological environment rooted in justice with practical experience of supporting organizations to this end. She previously led research on digital identity, biometrics, interoperability and environmental justice at The Engine Room. She has also conducted academic research at the University of Cambridge, Stanford University and the London School of Economics. Quito’s writing has been featured in the Forced Migration Review (Oxford University), Bot Populi and The Nation and her work has been cited by outlets such as Access Now and Geographical. Quito is MTI’s humanitarian AI lead and supports MTI’s research initiatives.
Happening in 2026: The Humanitarian AI Countdown Event Series
Humanitarians need to upskill—and fast. Members of our Humanitarian AI+MERL working group have repeatedly flagged the need to rapidly improve their comprehension and confidence in navigating AI tools. After producing a humanitarian brief on AI to help ground humanitarian decision-makers and provide critical foundational knowledge on humanitarian AI, and having multiple conversations with our CoP members, humanitarians and other stakeholders, we’re excited to bring you “4,3,2,1: The humanitarian AI countdown,” a new event series designed to respond to the need for quick and incisive takes on recent AI research, distilled for humanitarian stakeholders.
To catch up with past events in the series, check out the links below:
- Humanitarian knowledge production with Kristin Sandvik (February, 2026).
- How is AI infiltrating humanitarian aid operations with Giulio Coppi (April, 2026).
Keep an eye on our events page to learn about upcoming editions of the countdown!
Become a member!
Membership is free! To become a member of MERL Tech CoP, fill in this form indicating your agreement and alignment with the CoP Charter and Code of Conduct.