In spring 2007 the Director of the USAID Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance travelled to Darfur, Sudan. Prompted by concerns expressed to him during this visit, InterAction commissioned an assessment of the adequacy of policies and programs in place to support the well‐being of humanitarian staff in the region.
In October and November 2007, the Headington Institute surveyed 80 humanitarian workers—eight U.S.‐based headquarters management staff from five agencies, and 72 field staff based in Sudan and Chad representing 10 agencies. Seventy participants in the U.S., Sudan and Chad also participated in follow‐up interviews or focus groups. Surveys and interviews explored field staff’s current experiences of stress and well‐being; policies and programs related to staff wellness; staff selection, preparation and orientation; and staff support during and after assignments.
The Assessment Report also provided recommendations to agencies for realistic adjustments in policies and programs that should reduce stress for field staff and contribute to improved practice in the humanitarian community.
