Capabilities and Competencies in Humanitarian Operations

Abstract

This research explores the core capabilities of the U.S. military as well as of non-military organizations through the lens of the disaster response life cycle. Disasters and war share several attributes, such as the presence of displaced, injured, and vulnerable persons and the need for functioning infrastructure and life support through the distribution of emergency supplies and services. Both the U.S. military and non-military organizations bring assets, skills, and capabilities to a humanitarian crisis; however, the competencies and capacities of each are far from homogeneous. Identification of the specific competencies and capabilities that are core to the types of organizations bringing logistics and support to a crisis can enable better planning by both military and non-military organizations such that greater effectiveness and efficiency in the humanitarian response are achieved.