Why Debriefing Humanitarian Staff Should Be a Priority

Transitions out of assignments can be especially difficult. After months—or even years—in the field, staff often carry experiences and emotions that aren’t easily left behind. Without a structured space to reflect and process, stress and exhaustion can quietly build, affecting both well-being and professional effectiveness.

This is where debriefing makes a real difference. Thoughtfully designed debriefing provides staff with a safe space to reflect, acknowledge challenges, celebrate successes, and build resilience for future assignments. It also helps organizations capture valuable lessons, strengthen programs, and show staff that their care and experiences matter.

To help organizations get this right, we’ve created a free guide to best practices for debriefing humanitarian staff. Inside, you’ll find practical steps, tips for avoiding common pitfalls, and insights into how structured debriefing benefits staff, organizations, and the sector as a whole.

Whether you’re a field manager, HR professional, or executive responsible for staff care, this guide will provide actionable strategies to ensure that your teams return from assignments healthier, more resilient, and better prepared for what comes next.