A Neutrosophic Causality Analysis for Critical Success Factors of Humanitarian Logistics Management during Disaster

Abstract

Humanitarian logistics management (HLM) is essential for effective disaster response and risk mitigation in disaster-prone regions like Vietnam, where unpredictable natural disasters challenge critical success factors (CSFs) identification. This study adopts a quantitative approach, drawing on insights from 50 seasoned humanitarian logistics experts in Vietnam to develop an impartial dataset. It integrates Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) with Neutrosophic Sets (NSs), employing NS-Delphi for expert consensus, Neutrosophic Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (NS-DEMATEL) to assess CSF interrelationships, and Neutrosophic Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (NS-WASPAS) to prioritize strategies. The analysis covers 50 variables across five dimensions: Strategic, Operational, Technological, Financial and Resource Management, and Social and Environmental Factors. Results identify Strategic Factors—particularly disaster preparedness planning and international policies—as the main drivers of effective HLM in Vietnam. Prioritized strategies include digital transformation, strategic planning, policy development, data-driven disaster response, and improved last-mile delivery capabilities, all crucial for enhancing HLM effectiveness. This approach promotes a responsive, equitable, and sustainable logistics system by applying Neutrosophic logic, which addresses truth, indeterminacy, and falsity. These findings offer policymakers a robust framework to strengthen HLM, ensuring timely and unbiased relief operations in Vietnam’s complex disaster landscape.