Working Effectively in a Multi-Ethnic Conservation Field Team in a Developing Country
Michael R. Loomis, DVM, MA, DACZM
Hanes Veterinary Medical Center, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC, USA
Abstract
Working effectively in a field conservation team in a developing country can be very challenging and very rewarding. Understanding the field setting, managing expectations of team members, and understanding cultural differences are keys to being able to work effectively.
The Field Setting
A knowledge of the study site’s remoteness, climate, geography, infrastructure, security issues, transportation, and supply availability are essential to pre-trip planning.1 These factors define equipment requirements, team composition, and project duration.
Managing Team Members’ Expectations
A field team includes a number of individuals fulfilling different roles, all of which are essential to the successful completion of the mission. These roles range from porters and trackers to field biologists and veterinarians. It is important that each team member is treated with respect and acknowledged for his contributions. Each team member should sign a contract that details his duties, pay, and duration of employment. This is especially important for daily paid workers.
Understanding Cultural Differences
Acknowledging cultural differences, beliefs, and customs is key to working effectively in the field. The ability to “translate” local customs and beliefs into a western equivalent adds to mutual understanding and respect, and thus makes for a smooth field experience. Examples of such translations of local customs and beliefs to western equivalents are described in Table 1.
Table 1. Translations of customs and beliefs to western equivalents
Local custom or belief
|
Translation
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Don’t take the gizzard but, if offered it, accept with grace
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Don’t expect or demand respect or special privilege but, if offered, accept with grace
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Don’t dart my totem
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Respect local customs and beliefs
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Don’t let the phantom get to you
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Don’t be the limiting factor in field operations
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Taboo
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A gracious way to decline or say “no”
|
Cadeau
|
Reward excellence
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It’s the economy stupid
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The average person in developing countries lives on less than $2.00/day
|
Literature Cited
1. Loomis MR. Suggestions for veterinarians working in Central Africa. In: Proceedings from the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians, AZA Nutrition Advisory Group; October 14–21, 2005; Omaha, NE:192–195.