Paper details

Paper authors	Christopher Chen
In panel on	When Humanitarian Knowledge Hits the Road; Matching Learning Needs with Context
Paper presenter(s) will be presenting	In-Person / Online

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Knowledge Management (KM) in HADR operations in the Asia-Pacific region. Disaster situations are characterised by a high level of complexity; humanitarian actors have to be well-equipped to deal with the uncertainties involved. This brings into focus the importance of knowledge management practices and processes in disaster management. There is a growing recognition that coordination in humanitarian responses and relief operations can be enhanced through the practice of knowledge sharing and exchange, both within and between organisations. Humanitarian organisations need to find ways to transfer institutional knowledge and social capital to current and future generations of humanitarian workers. While the concept of knowledge management is not new, there is very little research on its implementation within the context of humanitarian organisations in the Asia-Pacific region.

This paper will address the following questions: (1) Do these humanitarian organisations have an understanding of the concept of knowledge management, and what forms of knowledge management mechanisms do they have in place? (2) What forms of knowledge are critical for (i) day-to-day operations, (ii) disaster responses, (iii) in the aftermath of the disaster? (3) What are some of the challenges faced by humanitarian actors in terms of sharing knowledge and information with one another? (4) How can the sharing of institutional best practices, as well as lessons learnt from past responses and operations, help to improve future disaster response efforts?

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