Paper details
| Paper authors | Anine Kongelf, Kaia Kveen, Sør-Varanger Red Cross |
| In panel on | Reimagining Humanitarian Response in the Face of Compounding Global Risks |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
In the face of intensifying climate impacts in the Arctic, we conducted a Photovoice study in Finnmark, Norway, to explore how to strengthen health preparedness in the Arctic region. Characterized by vast distances, harsh weather, sparse populations, and limited resources, the environment challenges the delivery of health services and creates a high-risk setting for disasters. This study offers a unique perspective of compounding risk and challenges faced by civil society along with how they adapt and respond. Adopting a frontline perspective, five volunteers from Sør-Varanger Red Cross visually documented their lived experiences, emotions, and perspectives through photography. The participatory action design enabled participants to record, reflect and discuss critical societal issues. The experiences, stories and voices of participants were elevated locally and amongst policy makers, through the development of a photo exhibition. The findings from this project highlight that volunteers in Sør-Varanger Red Cross hold a broad and nuanced understanding of what constitutes health preparedness, structural and operational vulnerabilities, and the way community resilience is constructed which encompasses a whole-of-society approach underpinned by self-preparedness, collaboration and the ability to identify and support those in need of care. This is only possible through local presence and knowledge, relationship building and trust, that is established and maintained through cross-sector partnerships and community engagement before and after emergencies.
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