The United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) is part of the international emergency response system for sudden-onset emergencies. Created in 1993, UNDAC is designed to help the United Nations and governments of disaster-affected countries during the first phase of a sudden-onset emergency by rapid deployment of specialized teams. UNDAC also assists in the coordination of incoming international relief at national level and/or at the site of the emergency.

UNDAC teams, consisting of experienced humanitarians and disaster management experts, can deploy at short notice (12-48 hours) anywhere in the world. They are provided free of charge to the disaster-affected country and deployed upon the request of the United Nations Resident or Humanitarian Coordinator and/or the affected Government.

The overall aim of the UNDAC Advisory Board meeting is for the board members to provide operational and strategic guidance to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the UNDAC system, which must remain fit for purpose at global and regional levels as a rapid response tool and cooperation mechanism of the UN.