Risk management and preparation for first response in emergency situations are fundamental for Cáritas, as they allow communities to be better equipped to face disasters and protect the most vulnerable people. With this commitment in mind, on August 6, the second meeting of the project "Strengthening Capacities for Disaster Risk Management of the MAGRE team in Latin America and the Caribbean" project was held. This project, executed by SELACC in association with Cáritas de España, and supported by AECID and Secour Catholique-Cáritas France.

The meeting, which had a high participation of the Social Pastorals-Caritas Nacionales, was carried out virtually, covering the four zones of the region (CAMEX, Caribbean, Bolivariana and Southern Cone). Directors, National and Regional Representatives participated, as well as the project and communications team. During the session, the progress and upcoming challenges were presented, highlighting the activities planned for this year and the methodologies used for their implementation.

Doctor Sonia Luisa Pérez Tello, project consultant, presented the baseline in disaster risk management and first response with a community approach, validating the instruments to be used with the active collaboration of the participants. This work is essential to identify gaps in capabilities and develop a synchronous course that will be integrated into the project in the near future.

At the end of the meeting, a Selection Committee was formed to evaluate experiences in disaster risk management, made up of representatives from Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Nicaragua and Argentina. The next meeting was scheduled for September 5, 2024, where progress will continue in this vital emergency preparedness and response effort.

Click here to watch the video of the meeting.

With information from María Verónica Bastías González and photography by Cáritas Mexicana