Humanitarian Work Psychology

Have you ever wondered what makes a good humanitarian organization? How can civil society and non-governmental organizations, the different arms of the United Nations and corporate organizations respond most effectively to the challenges of organizing the work of aid, development and poverty reduction? What are the organizational issues that can make a critical difference to their effectiveness? What enables enterprises to grow and develop in challenging settings like the aftermath of a devastating tsunami? These questions are all related to humanitarian work psychology and have so far been largely overlooked by global development policy and policy makers. Their focus has remained steadfastly macro. Whilst recognizing the importance of grand plans at the macro level, this book is fresh and unique. It reverses the conventional emphasis completely. It marshals contributions by leading-edge thinkers and practitioners globally. What distinguishes, unites and differentiates them from more conventional ideas is a down-to-earth, everyday focus - the workplace. After all, humanitarian work must be well organized to succeed. It depends on the wellbeing and successful performance of humanitarian workers and the organizational structures that support them, as well as the creation and maintenance of decent work for all. These concerns are the essence of Humanitarian Work Psychology.