In the event of a natural disaster or any other unfortunate event, the people living in the affected areas need all the help they can get. Several non government organizations (NGOs), local government agencies and international bodies such as the United Nations offer relief to such people. The work carried out by such organizations is collectively known as humanitarian work. It may also consist of helping the poor and the needy regardless of an unfortunate incident. Most of the funding for this type of work is received from wealthy individuals or large organizations, who donate large amounts of money for charity work.
Although some individuals perform humanitarian work as charity, it can also be a full time job for those who are interested in carrying it out full time. Various kinds of professionals such as health care workers, field officers and those skilled in logistics can work for humanitarian aid. It is a profession which many not reap the same amount of financial benefits that other jobs offer; however for those seeking to help in a humanitarian cause, it can be fulfilling.
Objectives
The primary objective of humanitarian work is to reduce suffering and providing help for those who have undergone through a traumatic disaster and are in the recovering and rebuilding phases. People working in this field are employed by governments or by NGOs. Conducting distribution of food items, clothing, and other basic necessities along with making sure that the correct aid is being given to appropriate people is one of the major tasks carried out by humanitarian workers. Healthcare professionals in this line of work have to provide basic health aid to the needy and arrange for transportation and admission to better medical facilities to those who are in need of it.
Skills and Requirements
Specific educational requirements are not a must for a basic level humanitarian aid worker. Possessing good social, interpersonal and communication skills are more important than having educational qualifications. However, for supervisory or administrative work, specific requirements which match those of the same job positions in other fields may be required. For such positions, a bachelor's degree in public health, social studies, logistics or any related field are essential. Prior experience in working at a nonprofit organization and helping them with humanitarian work can be an added advantage to have on one's resume.
Possessing a keen empathetic outlook and having the ability to communicate in various languages are some of the desirable skills that are sought after in a candidate. It is also essential to be able to work in a team based environment and work away from home for long periods, which could last up to several months at a stretch.
Work Conditions
Owing to the fact that a major portion of their work is carried out on the field while helping disaster survivors and victims, this is a physically demanding job and may involve long hours of working outdoors and in difficult working conditions. Fumes and dust particles in earthquake struck areas, water logged areas in places hit by floods and tsunamis or harmful nuclear radiation in a disaster around a nuclear reactor are some of the hazards and risks that humanitarian aid workers have to face. Also, while serving in places devastated by war, they may face opposition from the local people of that area. There have been several cases where such workers have been kidnapped as well as killed.
Salary and Benefits
The salaries of those working in humanitarian aid vary from position to position. Those working as managers and officers may earn above $85,000 on an average, while those with basic level jobs can earn anywhere between $30,000 and $45,000. Those employed by local governmental agencies also receive extra benefits such as health insurance plans, pension plans and paid leaves in addition to other benefits.
Thus, humanitarian work can be an extremely fulfilling career to those who are interested in providing aid and help to the people who are in need of it. A career in this field can take you to different places and help you in interacting with various types of people.