Humanitarian organisations need to train more people from crisis-hit regions: new report

The report, "Rethinking Learning and Recruitment to Improve Humanitarian Outcomes," is published by the Humanitarian Leadership Academy and University of London Careers Service (UoLCS). It identifies significant barriers that prevent crisis-affected individuals from entering the humanitarian workforce despite their crucial local knowledge and experience.

The report is published following a recent roundtable which identified and addressed challenges for humanitarian organisations. These included balancing respect for local communities while avoiding wage-driven disruptions to local labour markets; and addressing legal restrictions for the employment of crisis-affected individuals. Solutions include enhancing and investing in scholarship and internship programs for individuals from crisis-affected regions to improve access to educational and career opportunities in the humanitarian sector. 

Other proposed solutions included:

• Expanding sector recognised flexible credentialing systems, such as micro-credentials, like HPass, to validate diverse educational backgrounds. 
• Ensuring blended training approaches combine academic rigour with short-term practical modules to address immediate needs and support the range of routes through which people develop their skills.
• Advocating for supportive policies from local authorities and promoting fair compensation that recognises diverse credentials to stimulate a more level playing field. 

James Weaver, Associate Director (Engagement and Insights), of University of London Careers Service, said:

"Fostering a diverse humanitarian workforce that incorporates the knowledge and lived experiences of those affected by crisis is crucial, and a key way to address skills gaps at speed. We hope this report lays the groundwork for meaningful discussions and actions within both the humanitarian sector and educational institutions globally and creates a platform for collaboration." 

The Humanitarian Leadership Academy is a sector-facing team within Save the Children. Its mission is to inspire a movement for locally led humanitarian action.

Dominic Courage, Deputy Director of External Relations, Humanitarian Leadership Academy, said:

"Strategic thinking about humanitarian recruitment and learning is more critical than ever in this moment of profound change. This roundtable highlighted the importance of collaboration between civil society in places affected by crisis, INGOs, and academia to generate fresh ideas. Leveraging diverse perspectives will help build a resilient humanitarian workforce ready to tackle contemporary challenges."