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Purpose Providing humanitarian services to people affected by disasters poses many challenges for relief organizations. This study aims to present a model of humanitarian supply chain (HSC) challenges using the interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and MICMAC approach in dealing with disasters. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a hybrid ISM-MICMAC methodology. Key challenges and sub-challenges were identified through a systematic literature review conducted from 2006 to 2024, using databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. A panel of 24 experts from the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) validated and assessed interrelationships among 16 sub-challenges via a structured questionnaire and consensus discussions. The ISM approach was used to develop a hierarchical model, while MICMAC analysis classified challenges based on driving and dependence powers. Findings The ISM analysis revealed a nine-level hierarchical model of HSC challenges, with root sub-challenges such as lack of asset visibility (C11) influencing higher-level dependent challenges. MICMAC classified sub-challenges primarily into linkage and independent variables, with no autonomous or purely dependent ones, highlighting the interconnected nature of HSC issues. Originality/value This study extends existing structural analyses of HSC challenges by introducing an integrated ISM-MICMAC framework tailored to post-disaster contexts. Using 16 expert-validated sub-challenges from the IRCS, the study uncovers distinctive MICMAC patterns, including the absence of purely autonomous or dependent variables, and proposes a novel nine-level hierarchical structure not identified in prior research. By combining hierarchical modeling with dependency classification, this research delivers actionable insights for humanitarian managers to enhance SC efficiency, resilience and disaster response across diverse operational settings.
H. Gheibdoust (Tue,) studied this question.