International Dialogue on Strengthening Partnership in Disaster Response: bridging national and international support, statement of the co-convenors identifying elements for a plan of action

From 25 through 26 October, more than 130 representatives from governments, regional organizations, the UN system, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and non- governemental organizations gathered in Geneva for a results-oriented Dialogue aimed at improving cooperation in international disaster assistamce. identifying common challenges, exchanging best practices and alessons learned, and developing new ideas for moving forward. 

The Dialogue was confucted in two parts, an open session to which all permanent missions and Geneva-based humanitarian organizations were invited, and a closed session with selected participation. 

Participants welcomed the Dialogue as an innovative initiative bringing together naitonal, regional, and international responders with affected states to discuss joint challenges, increase mutual understanding and foster an enhanced complementary approach by all to better meet the needs of persons affected by disasters. This statement reflects the co-convenors' understanding of the shared understandings and key challenges identified by participants, as well as a number of future action steps.