After 25 years of engagement in disasters all over the world - how do you find motivation to continue? For 25 years Mollekleiv has been met with that question when returning to the safe haven of Oslo from contexts of armed conflict, of natural disasters, of famine, infectious diseases.More than ever before the provision of an adequate humanitarian response in disasters depend on local humanitarian operators. Volunteers who are trained in advance and who respond immediately when disasters strike. Committed not only in the immediate aftermath, but also to the long term effort needed to rebuild the society.

Sven Mollekleiv is considered as one of Norway’s most experienced humanitarian voices. The current and longstanding President of the Norwegian Red Cross, Mollekleiv aims to cement the country's’ commitment to providing aid and support to struggling communities both home and abroad as well as ensuring that society’s eyes and ears are kept firmly open so people in need do not go unnoticed.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx