14 Delivering humanitarian assistance in the face of climate change – a qualitative study

• Published in: BMJ open 2024-03, Vol.14 (Suppl 1), p.A5-A6
• Main Authors: Faddoul, Alix, Devine, Carol, Winch, Peter, McMahon, Shannon, Rocklöv, Joacim, Nayna Schwerdtle, Patricia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Climate change; Humanitarianism; Qualitative research
• ISSN: 2044-6055; 2044-6055
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-UCL-QHRN2024.14

BackgroundThe latest IPCC Report confirmed that climate change is contributing to humanitarian crises (IPCC AR6, 2023). The impacts of CC&ED on humanitarian contexts remain insufficiently documented, with a notable absence of academic literature covering the experiences and perceptions of humanitarian professionals regarding the effects of CC&ED.MethodsA qualitative research methodology was employed to delve deep into the nuanced perceptions and experiences of humanitarian professionals working with affected people and communities. 49 semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using the framework analysis approach for applied research developed by Goldsmith (2021).ResultsHumanitarian workers reported a wide range of impacts from CC&ED at both individual and operational levels.Direct health impacts: CC&ED lead to a rise in physical and mental health issues among affected populations and humanitarian workers, straining health services.Damage to physical infrastructure & environment: CC&ED can lead to the destruction of health facilities and roads, disrupt healthcare services and supply chains, and cause personal material losses for humanitarian workers.Worsened conditions of living & working: CC&ED can contribute to extreme heat and pollution, undermining the health and efficiency of humanitarian workers, complicating staff retention, disrupting care continuity and operational planning.Emergencies within emergencies: Climate change intensifies crises, particularly in conflict zones and densely populated areas, leading to compounded vulnerabilities and resource shortages that challenge the response capacity of humanitarian workers.ConclusionThis study illuminates the profound challenges climate change and environmental degradation pose to humanitarian action. The personal and operational strains on humanitarian workers and the complexities of managing aid delivery in this new context demands new approaches to humanitarian response. The research highlights the critical need for humanitarian organizations to document impacts and adapt strategies proactively, ensuring effective and resilient humanitarian assistance in the face of an evolving climate crisis.