Skip to main content

Overview

United Nations (UN) General Assembly Resolution 57/150 (16 December 2002) states that each country is responsible first and foremost for caring for the victims of disasters and other emergencies occurring on its territory. It has the primary role of initiating, organising, coordinating, and implementing humanitarian assistance within its jurisdiction. Therefore, countries must develop a robust emergency management framework based on their national risk profile.

It is recommended that Governments integrate national USAR response systems and mechanisms into their national legal framework and emergency management systems. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) or Local Emergency Management Authority (LEMA), as the government’s lead disaster response agency, should be well-versed in the need for and deployment of national resources (including USAR) to disasters of any sort within its sovereign boundary.

National Capacity Building Process​

To engage in search and rescue a continuous capacity-building process is needed at the national or international levels. To develop a USAR national capacity-building programme the following general requirements, components and guidelines should be taken into consideration:

Foundational elements

  • Needs Assessment: a comprehensive analysis to understand the specific needs, gaps, and opportunities within the sector or population targeted by the programme.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: involvement of key stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, NGOs, private sector partners, and beneficiaries, to ensure the programme is well-rounded and meets current needs.
  • Funding and Resources: securing adequate funding and resources, including financial resources, human capital, and infrastructure.
  • Policy Framework: a robust policy framework that provides legal and regulatory backing for the programme, ensuring alignment with national risk reduction goals.
  • Capacity Development Plan: develop a detailed plan outlining the programme’s objectives, activities, timelines, roles, and responsibilities.

Key components

  • Training and Development: provide targeted training programmes and workshops to develop skills and knowledge relevant to USAR capacity response.
  • Institutional Strengthening: enhance the capabilities of institutions involved in implementing the programme, including their governance, management, and operational processes.
  • Knowledge Management: develop systems for knowledge sharing and management to foster continuous learning and adaptation.
  • Technical Assistance: provide technical support and expertise to ensure effective implementation and address challenges.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to measure progress, assess impact, and inform ongoing improvements.

Guiding principles

  • Inclusivity: ensure the programme is accessible and beneficial to all population segments.
  • Sustainability: design the programme with sustainability in mind, focusing on long-term impact and the ability of beneficiaries to continue building capacity.
  • Adaptability: building flexibility into the programme to adapt to changing needs, contexts, and stakeholder feedback.
  • Collaboration: foster partnerships among various stakeholders to leverage expertise, resources, and networks.
  • Transparency and Accountability: maintain transparency in programme management and decision-making with precise accountability mechanisms.

Potential barriers

  • Limited Resources: insufficient funding, human resources, or infrastructure can constrain programme scope and effectiveness, an issue often cited as a fundamental barrier.
  • Resistance to Change: stakeholders may resist new methods or approaches, particularly if they challenge established practices or require significant improvements to existing capacity.
  • Political Instability: changes in political leadership or policy priorities can disrupt programme continuity and effectiveness.
  • Cultural Barriers: cultural differences and social norms can affect stakeholder engagement and programme adoption, particularly in diverse or multi-ethnic contexts.
  • Lack of Planning or Coordination: poor coordination among stakeholders can lead to duplicated efforts, wasted resources, and fragmented impact.

Developing a USAR national capacity-building programme requires careful planning, stakeholder engagement, adequate resources, and attention to sustainability and inclusivity. While challenges exist, a well-designed programme that addresses a Member State's specific needs and builds on existing strengths can significantly impact national resilience.