Meet to discuss legal issues during disasters

THE PNG Red Cross and representatives from the national government will take part in a two-day workshop in Fiji from Nov 22-23 to discuss the importance of the legal preparedness for disasters in the Pacific.
Red Cross secretary-general Esmie Sinapa said recent disasters experienced in the country had shown it was not adequately prepared for international assistance.
“Our participation at the International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent workshop themed Pacific preparedness: Strengthening laws and partnerships is a step forward in the disaster preparedness for PNG at the international, regional and national level,” she said.
Sinapa said there would also be discussions on how the International Disaster Response Law guidelines could be used to enhance national policies.
“As the frequency and consistency of disasters are increasing in PNG, we need to be legally prepared for international assistance,” Sinapa said.
The workshop will involve representatives from national Red Cross societies in the Pacific and the government and will provide an opportunity to share perspectives and experiences on disaster management.
The workshop will discuss how humanitarian diplomacy approaches can strengthen the advocacy and policy outcomes, with the aim to strengthen the relationship between governments and national Red Cross societies.