Credentials

The Humanitarian Guild awards professional credentials to recognise responsible practice, applied judgement, and experience in humanitarian and emergency contexts.

Credentials are not qualifications or certifications. They reflect independent recognition that an individual’s professional practice has been assessed against published standards.

Credential levels

The Guild awards credentials at three levels, reflecting increasing responsibility, experience, and professional judgement.

* Associate

Associate recognition is intended for professionals working in humanitarian or emergency contexts who are developing experience or operating in supporting, analytical, coordination, or policy-focused roles.

This includes individuals contributing through headquarters-based functions, policy development, programme support, coordination, analysis, or related roles that influence humanitarian practice and decision-making.

Associate recognition signals engagement with professional standards and a commitment to responsible practice, and may serve as a pathway toward higher levels of recognition.

* Practitioner

Practitioner recognition is awarded to experienced professionals who have held operational or advisory responsibility in humanitarian or emergency environments.

Practitioner recognition signals demonstrated judgement, accountability, and applied experience consistent with the Guild’s standards.

* Chartered

Chartered recognition is reserved for senior practitioners with a sustained record of leadership, responsibility, and peer trust in complex humanitarian or emergency contexts.

Chartered status signals advanced professional standing and is awarded through a more rigorous assessment process.

Recognition and use

Recognised individuals may:

reference their credential in professional biographies, CVs, and profiles
request independent verification of recognised standing for professional or organisational purposes
be included in the Guild’s private register of recognised members
be invited to contribute to future standards reviews or consultations

Recognition does not imply endorsement, advocacy, or operational authority by the Guild.

Assessment and standing

All credentials are awarded through an assessment process aligned with published standards.

Recognition confirms that an individual:

has been assessed against relevant professional standards
holds current standing at the awarded credential level
remains in good standing with the Guild

Recognition is subject to periodic review.

Next information

Detailed standards and recognition processes are published separately.

Applications for recognition are accepted on a rolling basis.

Current fees, where applicable, are communicated at the time of application.

Proceed to application