Preparing for Catastrophe: A New U.S. Framework for International Disaster Response
Abstract
Success of the U.S. Government response to international humanitarian disasters depends upon the quality and timeliness of decisions made in Washington D.C. as much as upon activities in the field. However, the government lacks a comprehensive framework for organizing and managing interagency response efforts even though numerous federal departments and agencies may participate. Without clearly established lines of authority , expectations, and responsibilities for each organization, U.S. efforts are often ad hoc and erratic. The purpose of this paper is to identify the need for a more effective U.S. Government international disaster response system and to suggest a framework of structures, processes, and procedures that can effect an improvement. The paper first makes a case for the strategic importance of U.S. disaster response capabilities in order to justify the commitment of attention and resources needed to develop a new response framework. It next reviews the current U.S. Government international disaster response system and highlights shortcomings in practice with two case study examples-the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo and the response to Hurricane Mitch. The paper then critiques the current disaster response system in four key areas- leadership, the interagency process, resources, and strategic planning. Finally, the paper offers options and recommends ways to construct a more effective U .S. Government framework for international disaster response.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA430922
Entities
People
- Gregory A. Hermsmeyer
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology