Preparedness: Sharing Experience in Preparing for and Responding to Crises
A two-day international forum organised by the Ukrainian Red Cross has concluded in Kyiv. The event brought together representatives from national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, government officials, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, humanitarian partners, and academic experts.
The forum aimed to strengthen the preparedness of Movement partners, enhance the auxiliary role of National Societies, and share the Ukrainian Red Cross’s experience during the ongoing war in Ukraine, particularly in providing coordinated and effective assistance during times of crisis.
Over the two days, participants — under the moderation of Hugo Slim, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford — engaged in the following activities:
- shared experiences of emergency response and collaboration with government and civil society at various levels;
- analysed models of conflict preparedness, with insights from Finland, Lithuania, Estonia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and others;
- developed practical skills in “experience exchange laboratories”, where Ukrainian Red Cross representatives presented best practices in logistics, communications, psychosocial support, restoring family links, international humanitarian law, disaster management, and emergency response.
The forum served as a valuable platform for professional dialogue on strengthening the capacity of National Societies to act effectively, cohesively, and in line with humanitarian principles.
We extend our sincere thanks to all participants, speakers, and partners for their trust, openness, and shared commitment to improving preparedness in an increasingly challenging world.
