THE MULTIDISCIPLINARY PROFESSIONAL IN THE INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE

Abstract

The composition of multidisciplinary teams has become an essential practice in addressing crises and international disasters due to the complexity of the scenarios and the diversity of emerging demands in these contexts. This study aimed to investigate the performance of professionals from different fields in international humanitarian missions, based on document analysis of technical-scientific publications produced by public agencies, non-governmental organizations, and researchers active in the humanitarian field. The research showed that the presence of multiple specialties gathered in a single collective effort contributes to a broader, more efficient, and locally adapted response, integrating health, social assistance, psychological support, logistics, engineering, and legal protection actions. The data also revealed ongoing weaknesses in academic training for emergency response, with the absence of specific disciplines in university curricula being a recurring issue. Another important finding was the need for institutional strategies focused on the mental health of professionals, especially considering their constant exposure to extreme suffering situations. The recognition of community knowledge, active listening, and horizontality in decision-making were also identified as key factors for the effectiveness of the implemented actions. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that the multidisciplinary professional plays a central role in humanitarian response, and their continuous qualification should be encouraged through public policies, ongoing training programs, and mechanisms of professional appreciation.