From Compassion to Capacity: Narrative Accountability & Perception Politics

Published on April 3, 2026

Rubenstein 414-AB
79 JFK St.
Cambridge
Fri., Apr. 3, 2026, 12 – 1 p.m.

Graphic for the Harvard Center for International Development (CID) Speaker Series, featuring the Harvard shield logo and “Road to GEM” branding. The words “CID Speaker Series” appear in large, colorful text across the image. On the right, there

In this talk, Rain explores how development narratives shape policy, capital flows, and public perception. He argues that dominant humanitarian storytelling—often focused on poverty and helplessness—can distort local agency and influence funding priorities in unhelpful ways. Drawing on practitioner experience and media analysis, he proposes a more intentional approach to storytelling that aligns ethical communication with sustainable economic impact.

Hosted by the Harvard Center for International Development, this hybrid event is open to all. Harvard ID holders are encouraged to attend in person, while non-HUID guests may join via livestream or watch the recording afterward.

Online Location: harvard.zoom.us…
Gazette Classification: Community, Humanities
Organization/Sponsor: Harvard Center for International Development
Speaker(s): Michael Rain, TED Speaker & Harvard Resident Fellow
Contact Info: Crystal [email protected]
Harvard Key Required: No
More info: hksexeced.tfaforms.net…

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From Compassion to Capacity: Narrative Accountability & Perception Politics

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