Executive Summary

In December 2017 the Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Centre at RSIS identified four policy balances that must be struck when using emerging technologies in humanitarian operations. This report specifically explores how the short-term needs and long-term interests of those affected by disaster can be balanced when new technologies are used. It presents three principal findings. First, the use of emerging technologies for humanitarian purposes may influence land and labour markets in ways that require policy intervention. Second, locally focused innovators are best placed to take advantage of the relationship between humanitarian innovation and longer-term economic growth. Third, more must be done to mitigate the long-term risks, and harness the long-term benefits, of data collected for disaster management.