Logistics
Behind all frontline emergency response lies a major logistics exercise, and it is almost inherently true that crisis situations require the rapid delivery of personnel, supplies and services to difficult-to-reach locations. Logistics includes a broad range of activities, from management of the humanitarian operational environment (security, communications systems) to the land, sea and air transport/storage/distribution of program supplies and staff. Logistics also plays an important role in preparedness and is fast-evolving in terms of its capacities and technologies. Given the large expenses involved, the choice of supplies, suppliers and methods has a substantial impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian interventions.