“REGIONAL COOPERATION OF NGOS ON CRISIS MANAGEMENT IN DISASTERS” WAS THE MAIN TOPIC AT AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE HELD IN TEHRAN

 

International Blue Crescent Relief and Development Foundation (IBC) participated in the “Regional Cooperation of NGOs on Crisis Management in Disasters” Conference organized by the University of Tehran and Ýranian Ministry of Health, 12-14 December, 2006 in Tehran.

Several NGO representatives from Iran, Pakistan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan, representatives of International Committee of the Red Cross, National Red Cross Foundation delegations from Turkey, Irak, and Syria; and a representative from UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) participated in discussions concerning cooperation in dealing with “man-caused” or “natural” disasters which may happen anytime in the region.

A Project submitted jointly by the Ministry of Health Iran and University of Tehran proposing establishment of a Standing Committtee and annual meetings to be held, both in Teheran, was discussed in depth. Representatives from UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), International Committee of the Red Cross and International Blue Crescent Relief and Development Foundation (IBC) opposed these two proposals.


Representatiþve of Iranian Health Ministry introduces the pilot project they launched in Iran

IBC Vice president Muzaffer Baca in coordination with the representatives of international organizations opposed Iranian proposal to establish the Regional Permanent disaster responce center in Teheran


Vice-President of IBC, Mr. Muzaffer Baca proposed that a standing committee shall be composed of representatives of all the participating countries and need to be expanded to include all the regional countries, also. Mr. Baca suggested that an enlarged regional network need to be established.

 

 

In addition, Mr. Baca warned that a standing committee with limited participation may not be as effective in dealing with enormous problems when a natural disaster happens. Therefore, he strongly recommended that United Nations and other relevant International Organizations shall be included in proposed “enlarged Standing Committe” and in the communication network

A consensus has been reached on making preparations for developing the network and establishing a relevant Web site. On the two main issues, establishment of a Standing Committe and annual meetings to be held in Teheran, there was no consensus.
 
Added: 09/01/2007