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Identifying and Prioritizing Barriers Influencing Humanitarian Supply Chain During Disasters: A Best-Worst Method
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H. Gheibdoust   , M. Homayounfar , A. Kiani-Sarkaleh , M. Soufi |
| Department of Industrial Management, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran |
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Abstract: (13 Views) |
The humanitarian supply chain (HSC) plays a vital role in mitigating the devastating effects of natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods in Iran; however, it faces numerous operational barriers that reduce its effectiveness. Despite the growing body of literature on HSC, there remains a lack of empirical studies that systematically prioritize these barriers in disaster contexts using robust multi-criteria decision-making approaches, particularly in developing countries. Addressing this gap, the present study aims to identify and prioritize the key barriers affecting the HSC during disasters in Iran using the Best–Worst Method (BWM). Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 21 experts from the Rasht Red Crescent Society. The identified barriers were classified into four main dimensions: financial, human, technological, and cultural, comprising 12 sub-barriers. The findings reveal that financial barriers, especially the lack of skills in resource utilization and high disaster-related costs, exert the most significant impact on HSC performance. Human and technological barriers were ranked next, while cultural barriers were found to be the least influential. These results provide scientifically grounded insights that contribute to the HSC literature and offer practical guidance for policymakers and managers by highlighting the importance of sustainable financing, human resource development, and the adoption of digital technologies to enhance HSC resilience in disaster-prone environments.
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| Keywords: Humanitarian, Supply Chain, Humanitarian Supply Chain, Disasters, Best-Worst Method. |
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Published: 2025/10/1
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