Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks

Session title: Optimizing emergency preparedness: Connecting risk analysis, anticipatory action and early warning frameworks for resilient responses

Organizer(s): UNDRR, OCHA, WFP, FAO, UNDP, UNEP

27 Mar 25 09:00-10:30 UTC+1 (Salle 14)

SessionAbstract

As climate and disaster risks continue to escalate, the importance of preparedness in humanitarian response becomes increasingly critical. The growing frequency and severity of disasters demand a proactive stance, emphasizing the need for preparedness that not only responds to immediate needs but also anticipate future challenges. Preparedness is core to disaster risk reduction and
significantly contributes to saving lives and livelihoods, minimizing disaster losses and damages. This session will share the findings of a recent study exploring the state of emergency preparedness in humanitarian contexts, with focus on Humanitarian Programme Cycle countries. Examples of how to strengthen emergency preparedness through improved linkages to early warning systems, and better serve anticipatory actions and response planning frameworks, will be shared. Following the presentation and an open discussion, an interactive World Café will invite participants to jointly brainstorm options for a more resilient approach to disaster management, centered on emergency preparedness.

The session is open to anyone working on emergency preparedness and response, anticipatory action and early warning systems in
humanitarian contexts.

Expected outcomes

Examples shared of linkages between preparedness and response planning frameworks and processes in humanitarian contexts, with focus specifically on the links between risk analysis, anticipatory action, early warning systems and preparedness
Identification of means to provide support on preparedness for different stakeholders, with focus on both international and national actors
Identification of links between risk analysis, risk-informed programming and associated financing – with identification of key messages to be shared with different groups and fora such as the Inter-Agency Preparedness, Early Action and Readiness (PEAR) and the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

Agenda

Run-of-show (DRAFT):

First segment: Hybrid, 45 mins

Presentation of UNDRR/OCHA study on emergency preparedness and AA – 10 minutes

Commentary/feedback by:

Government representative – 5mins
OCHA – 5mins
WFP/UNDP – 5 mins
Means to strengthen support to national actors on preparedness
Ways to better link AA and EWS with preparedness
Getting financing for preparedness
Working with stakeholders on preparedness (e.g. private sector, local actors)

Discussion/Q&A – 15 mins (plus 5 mins wrap-up/explanation of next segment)

Second segment: In-person only, 45 mins

Three/four flipcharts set up around the room with one moderator at each flipchart. Participants are asked to split into groups and circulate around the room. The questions to be discussed at each group are to be determined, but could be the following:

Means to strengthen support to national actors on preparedness
Ways to better link AA and EWS with preparedness
Getting financing for preparedness
Working with stakeholders on preparedness (e.g. private sector, local actors)

The participants add thoughts on the flipchart. About 8-10 minutes for each group, then participants move. The moderator/notetaker briefs the new group on key items so discussion can be taken forward. At the end of the session the moderators/notetakers mention one or two key takeaways per area. UNDRR will synthesize the recommendations of the session and circulate to participants.