Timely access to satellite-derived information can strengthen disaster preparedness, response and early recovery by supporting rapid situational awareness, impact assessment, operational planning and the prioritization of resources. The International Charter: Space and Major Disasters provides an important mechanism through which authorized users can request satellite data and value-added products during major emergency events.
For Caribbean countries, awareness of the Charter, its activation process and the roles of national, regional and international partners is essential to ensuring that the mechanism can be accessed efficiently when required. The proposed session therefore combines a concise high-level segment with a practical sensitization component.
The high-level segment will reinforce the strategic importance of Earth observation and satellite-based information for disaster decision-making and encourage stronger institutional engagement with the Charter. This will be followed by a sensitization session focused on the Charter’s purpose, activation procedures, eligibility requirements, communication pathways and the responsibilities of key stakeholders before, during and after an activation.
Purpose
To increase awareness of the International Charter and strengthen institutional readiness to access and use satellite-based information during disaster events.
Objectives
- Highlight the strategic value of satellite-based information for disaster preparedness, response and recovery.
- Promote high-level support for strengthening national and regional access to the International Charter.
- Raise awareness of the Charter’s purpose, scope and operational benefits.
- Explain the activation process, including the roles of authorized users, project managers, value adders and requesting institutions.
- Clarify the communication and coordination pathways for requesting support.
- Encourage countries to identify appropriate national focal points and pursue authorized-user arrangements where applicable.
- Strengthen understanding of how Charter products can be incorporated into national and regional disaster decision-making processes.
