This discussion paper examines what is visible on the public record of humanitarian knowledge production, based on specific publications and how they cite their sources of information. It uses analysis of these publications’ content to reflect on trends in knowledge production in the humanitarian sector and what needs to change.
This discussion paper is part of a series of interlinked investigations of the politics of humanitarian knowledge and what changes can help bring about more inclusive and equitable approaches to research, analysis and decision-making. Working within the Power, People and Local Leadership stream of that program, we examine inequalities embedded in the humanitarian system, the conditions that perpetuate them, and avenues for change. In this series, we turn the lens onto knowledge production, using a range of methods that offer varying ways of conceptualising challenges and opportunities. Read the second paper here: Stories for Change: Elevating Global South Experiences in Humanitarian Knowledge Production.