Humanitarian Work Psychology

Have you ever wondered what makes a good humanitarian organization? How can organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, and the World Health Organization become more effective in their vital and laudable mission? How can multinational corporations contribute meaningfully to global issues like climate change and poverty reduction? 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.