Themed “Becoming Disaster Ready in the Asia Pacific”, the quadrennial conference takes place amid humanitarian crises, climate change, natural disasters, and other catastrophes. Hosting the conference reflects the Vietnamese Government’s commitment and the regional Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ sense of responsibility for responding to climate change and natural disasters.

Asia Pacific prepared against disasters

More than 60 delegations with more than 300 participants representing countries in the Asia Pacific region, the Middle East, and North Africa attended the conference, an opportunity for countries to share experience in responding to crises, identify ways to improve disaster preparedness and response capabilities, and discuss ways to strengthen coordination in disaster preparedness.

Bui Thi Hoa, President of the Vietnam Red Cross Society, said: "The theme of the conference is ‘Becoming Disaster Ready in the Asia Pacific’. Why did we choose this topic? We all know that Asia Pacific is a dynamic region, but it is also heavily affected by climate change and environmental problems. The impacts of natural disasters, catastrophes, and epidemics have created more losses for this region than for others. That's why this topic focuses on preparing for natural disasters and coordinating to prepare resources for humanitarian need."

Over the past several months, the Vietnam Red Cross has coordinated with other Red Cross Societies in the region to prepare the agenda and activities of the conference. By organizing a Youth Forum themed "Resilience rising: inspiring youth leaders in innovative disaster readiness” as part of the conference, Vietnam acknowledges the pioneering, creative role and preparedness of youth in responding to natural disasters in the Asia-Pacific region.

Vietnam’s contribution to international humanitarian movements 

The Vietnam Red Cross Society is one of 192 members of the Red Cross Society and the International Red Crescent that actively participate in international humanitarian movements.

The Vietnam Red Cross has participated in activities and proposed forums and seminars to discuss issues related to the activities of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Society. 

The Vietnam Red Cross has also provided practical models and initiatives to meet the current humanitarian needs of each country in the region.

Bui Thi Hoa, President of the Vietnam Red Cross Society, said: "We have participated proactively and have also responded to calls from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to help countries affected by natural disasters and disasters. We have focused on communications about international humanitarian law. Vietnam has demonstrated a sense of responsibility in contributing to global movements, and has received acknowledgement from other countries and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies." 

Hosting the conference creates an opportunity for Vietnam to introduce to international friends its unique culture and national identity as well as its engagement with global disaster prevention and response and humanitarian assistance.