In managing complex challenges today—from climate-driven disasters to conflict—cooperation with the private sector has become indispensable. Businesses are playing key roles in various phases, from preparing for disasters to responding swiftly and aiding in recovery efforts. As disasters become more frequent and severe worldwide, coordinating with all stakeholders, including the private sector, is essential.

Building sustainable and effective cross-sectoral partnerships is not easy. Very often, actors in the public and private sectors simply lack a common vocabulary or understanding of how each other works. 

Working with a multinational corporation, local business, or business federation / chamber of commerce requires humanitarians to view the private sector not just a source of funding, but as a strategic partner in the design and implementation of activities. When done correctly, public-private partnerships build community resilience and reinforce local capacity, ownership, and leadership.

Join us for a discussion on the importance of trust-building between the public and private sectors, and the need for genuine partnerships and coordination for effective disaster management. Our panellists, from across geographies and contexts, will share insights from recent and ongoing emergencies.

During the session, participants will:

1. Engage in an honest discussion about the importance of trust-building andequitablepartnerships between businesses, governments, and humanitarian agencies when it comes to effective crisis response;

2. Share stories of successes, as well as challenges, when it comes to forging trust and confidence between the different actors involved in disaster management; and,

3. Explore opportunities and shared aspirations forenhanced disaster management efforts through collaboration among local businesses, governments and humanitarian and development agencies.