Presentation
Understanding Culture in the Context of Emergencies: a Step towards a More Effective International Spill Response
DescriptionThe international spill response community works under unique circumstances where pressure and uncertainty are prevalent, yet strong work relationships are expected to be built among strangers in record times. Building trust and adaptability are therefore essential to create a timely environment of open communication and effective cooperation between stakeholders, leading to an effective response. However, achieving so in the context of an emergency where often national cultures collide requires awareness of the cultural dimensions of the incident location. For instance, understanding the preferred style for decision-making, the behaviour towards risk and uncertainty, and the level of trust in institutions can help in shaping an engagement strategy that reflects the national culture. With a common understanding of these dimensions and the local context, responders from various cultural and training backgrounds can better work towards an effective response. Through case studies, this paper explores how culture may influence the efficiency of a response under a joint response structure. By exploring cultural dimension frameworks, this analysis provides a different angle to preparedness activities by shifting a responder’s approach through the awareness of the cultural dimension.
Authors
Event Type
Paper
TimeWednesday, May 15th4:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
Location278-280
Restoration