Improving Logistics Processes in Humanitarian Assistance in Emergency Situations on the Territory of Bulgaria

Abstract

Logistics and supply chain management in providing humanitarian assistance in times of emergency (disasters, breakdowns, catastrophes and military conflicts) comprise a topical theoretical and practical issue related to handling humanitarian crises. The paper presents an evaluation of logistics practices implemented during humanitarian crises on the territory of Bulgaria. Research has been carried out on the opportunities for response to crises in the area of planning, evaluation of the scale and aftermath of crises, the request for providing support, the pooling up of resources, supply, transportation, tracking and tracing systems, inventory management, distribution and aid provision. The results from the study help identify the potential weaknesses and problems related to conducting logistics activities needed to handle potential humanitarian crises on the territory of Bulgaria, as well as defining the respective measures to be taken with regard to improving the efficiency of these actions.