Disaster logistics in small island developing states: Caribbean perspective
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the current state of disaster logistics among Caribbean small island developing states that are Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members, and, based on those findings propose a coherent logistics framework that could influence the development of a robust system that can effectively respond to disasters in the region.
Design/methodology/approach
Consisted of a series of in-depth interviews with national and regional disaster managers in the Caribbean. Secondary sources augmented the interviews. Data analysis conformed to Pope, et al. guidelines for qualitative research. There are limitations to this approach, but, the lack of existing research on the region and the need for information on the topic justify the approach.
Findings
The main findings show the lack of a coherent and integrated logistics strategy. Missing or weak components like transportation and distribution infrastructure, a procurement strategy, inadequate port facilities and insufficient human resources undermine the overall logistics performance. Although limitations of small island status further weigh on the development and implementation of a regional logistics approach is possible. The paper proposes one.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed framework has implications for disaster management and disaster policy in the Caribbean. From a disaster policy perspective it suggests important logistics governance decisions including funding, scalability issues and formalized agreements that must be made collectively.
Practical implications
From a management perspective the shows how to strengthen the regional response mechanism (RRM), builds efficiency in response and provides redundancies in the regional logistics system.
Originality/value
This paper’s value lies in its focus on a region that is often omitted in academic literature, but is disaster-prone. Importantly, the research proposes a workable framework on which to build a robust logistics infrastructure and improve logistics capacity based on primary research.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was funded by the Professional Staff Congress, City University of New York (PSC-CUNY). The author wishes to thank PSC-CUNY. The author would also like to thank the Executive Director and senior staff at the CDEMA for making time to talk with me and for encouraging national disaster directors in the region to complete interviews at their annual conference in Montego Bay, Jamaica During December 2013. My special appreciation to the national disaster directors of St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua, Guyana, Montserrat, and Jamaica who took time out of their busy schedules to talk with me.
Citation
Thompson, D.D.P. (2015), "Disaster logistics in small island developing states: Caribbean perspective", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 166-184. https://doi.org/10.1108/DPM-09-2014-0187
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited