AFAD-CEMEC in Turkey to enhance innovative strategies in disaster management
Ankara October ,30 2023
Strengthening Disaster Management: A Collaborative Approach for Innovative StrategiesThe European Centre for Disaster Medicine recently engaged in high-level discussions with the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) in Turkey.
The meeting, convened at the AFAD Headquarters, assembled representatives from both organizations, marking an advancing partnership aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response strategies.
Mr. Bekir Şen, the Head of the Civil Defence Department; Ms. Ulviye Ersoy Yalçın, Head of the National CBRN Working Group; and Ms. Tuğba Başayar represented AFAD, reaffirming their commitment to augmenting disaster management programs and fostering international collaborative initiatives with global partners.
Turkey, being susceptible to seismic events, holds a prominent position in the global disaster landscape. Facing significant earthquakes annually underscores the need for effective disaster management mechanisms. AFAD, a key institution under the Ministry of the Interior dedicated to disaster prevention and mitigation, has pioneered an innovative model, known as the Integrated Disaster Management System, emphasizing the shift from crisis to risk management.
With 81 provincial branches and 11 search and rescue units nationwide, AFAD embodies a comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness. Additionally, its collaborative framework with various governmental and non-governmental entities underscores its dedication to a holistic disaster response.
Over the past seven years, AFAD has managed many responses to catastrophic earthquakes and floods, facilitating recovery and rehabilitation for affected communities. Particularly noteworthy are its international humanitarian missions across more than 50 countries, spanning multiple continents, showcasing firm commitment to global humanitarian aid efforts.
AFAD's operational scope extends beyond natural disasters to encompass social and technological crises, such as refugee influxes and CBRN incidents. As the primary authority in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery nationwide, AFAD's multifaceted approach ensures a resilient and coordinated response to diverse crises.
The convergence between the European Centre for Disaster Medicine and AFAD underscores the proactive approach in bolstering global disaster resilience. This collaboration not only signifies a shared commitment to mitigating disasters but also marks a new step in fostering international cooperation in disaster management.
The exchange of insights and strategies between these organizations is poised to catalyze advancements in disaster medicine, and in shaping a more resilient global disaster response landscape.
