Emergency preparedness and response operations

National emergency frameworks and systems that include risk-based emergency preparedness and response plans, robust emergency management structures, including emergency operation centres, a trained workforce and mobilization of resources during an emergency, are critical for timely response. In cases where international assistance is required, supportive national systems and legislation are neces­sary for a coordinated health response.

States Parties will:

• a. conduct and regularly update all-hazard risk mapping that will serve as the basis of national preparedness planning;
• b. develop and regularly update national multisectoral, all-hazard emergency preparedness and response activities and supporting policies and procedures with dedicated financial and human resources;
• c. establish, maintain or strengthen emergency response coordination mechanisms, including incident management systems and health emergency operations centres; and
• d. implement appropriate policies and standard operating procedures to ensure the continu­ous delivery of essential health services packages.

The Regional Office will provide leadership, together with key partners, to:

• a. support the strengthening of States Parties capacity to conduct and regularly update nation­al risk mapping and national preparedness, response and contingency plans;
• b. coordinate the collective response by operational health partners and agencies of the United Nations, as relevant, to ensure equitable access to essential health services during emergen­cies; and
• c. support countries’ communication activities during emergencies, by providing tools and guid­ance, including for the coordination of communication efforts.