The Global Logistics Cluster - A mechanism to coordinate humanitarian logistics

Abstract: Disasters are occurring more frequently and are affecting more people than ever, therefore humanitarian operations are becoming more important. The location of a disaster is difficult to predict which makes the use of effective logistics services a key function when it comes to distributing supplies. Time is an important factor, and therefore preparedness is important to organize an effective and efficient response. There are many different organizations involved in the humanitarian sector and the coordination of their efforts have been a problem, bad coordination have resulted in actors competing for recourses. The Global Logistics Cluster (GLC) is a coordination mechanism that has been developed within the humanitarian sector to address the issues that the lack of coordination has led to in the past. If a cluster is well developed and managed correctly, it might have a positive impact on the immediate response after a disaster. This would indicate that the GLC can improve the emergency preparedness by reducing confusion and inappropriate use of resources in the aftermath of a disaster. The discussion on the link between the use of a logistics cluster and emergency preparedness have been given very little attention both in literature and practice. We reach the conclusion that the GLC should be viewed as an important part of the preparedness activities. The purpose of the initiation of the GLC is clear, and as the case studies reveal that preparedness related activities are carried out, our interpretation is that more can be done in terms of preparedness. However, our research only show a small part of what can be done in the preparedness phase, and further research could reveal more important information concerning coordination and preparedness related activities. This could, in the long run, allow a more efficient and effective response and thereby save more lives.