A Research Agenda for Humanitarian Logistics

Elgar Research Agendas outline the future of research in a given area. Leading scholars are given the space to explore their subject in provocative ways, and map out the potential directions of travel. They are relevant but also visionary.This timely Research Agenda explores humanitarian logistics as an academic discipline in the wake of major disasters and conflicts worldwide. It establishes new methods of approach and extends the discussion to include recent developments since the COVID-19 pandemic.Focusing on previously underexplored areas, this Research Agenda presents a provocative exploration of supply chains for humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and complex emergencies, as well as necessary structural changes. Expert academics and practitioners in the field provide an overview of trends and developments and grant a comprehensive coverage of humanitarian operations. They evaluate the importance of NGOs and nonprofit international actors, while assessing the connection to commercial logistics in practical management. Chapters look ahead to important avenues of study, particularly the need for robustness of humanitarian aid infrastructures in the face of increased impacts from conflict and unpredictable weather events.Academics and students in humanitarian operations, logistics, supply chain management as well as political science, international relations, and business studies will greatly benefit from this Research Agenda's invaluable insights. It is also a crucial resource for humanitarian professionals and policymakers.