Interview with MPA student Elena Bernardi, questions by Kate Selbig and Sofie Zeruto

How has Watson allowed you to pursue your professional and personal interests? Are these interests a continuation or a pivot from your past professional experience?

I came to Watson after several years of non-profit work, looking to pivot in my career. I was searching for a program that could help me focus my interests more clearly while building and strengthening the skills I felt were missing. Watson has not only met those expectations but far exceeded them. From the Director’s Fellowship, to the wealth of networking opportunities and the incredibly diverse and accomplished faculty, the Watson community has opened doors I didn’t know existed. It’s been a space of serious growth—professionally and personally—all while remaining genuinely enjoyable.

You did research with CHRHS on the use of armed escorts for humanitarian convoys and recently presented in Geneva at the humanitarian networks and partnerships week. Can you summarize some key takeaways from your research? What was the response to your findings and how do you plan to carry forward with this research in its implementation?

Armed Escorts are often treated as a routine part of humanitarian operations, but rarely are they critically examined in their own right. My team's research with CHRHS focused on the use of armed escorts for humanitarian convoys and the broader implications for access, neutrality, and safety. A key takeaway is that while armed escorts are sometimes necessary, their use carries serious trade-offs—impacting not just safety, but also how humanitarian actors are perceived on the ground. When my team and I presented the findings in Geneva, the conversation we had revealed how complex and context-specific this issue was. The research we conducted but also conversations we had following our presentation underscored just how urgent it is to develop clearer, context-sensitive guidance. This research isn’t just academic—it has direct implications for saving lives and preserving the integrity of humanitarian missions.

How was your experience in Geneva? What did you learn and/or take away from the overall themes of the conference?

My experience in Geneva was truly inspiring, to see how much thought, coordination, and expertise go into every facet of humanitarian work—from backend planning and logistics to implementation and innovation across sectors like security, emergency response, health, and education. What stood out most was the deep dedication and perseverance of those in the field, and the recognition that the challenges we face demand constant adaptation, fresh ideas, and new leadership. It reinforced for me how essential it is to have programs like Watson producing the next generation of leaders ready to step into that space.

What's a policy or social issue you think warrants more attention?

Security policy in foreign and humanitarian contexts deserves far more critical attention—especially when it comes to how risk is assessed and managed by international actors. Too often, security frameworks are shaped by external perceptions of danger rather than the lived realities of local communities or field staff. This can lead to limiting humanitarian access, alienating local partners, or inadvertently escalating tensions. Policies needs to emphasize that security is not just about physical protection, but also about trust, legitimacy, and relationships.

What do you hope to pursue after completing the MPA program? What's something you want to take with you from your time at Brown?