The 8th International Congress on Health in Disaster and Emergencies started on 22 April with focus on “Understanding Disasters Risks” as the first priority of the Sendai framework. The congress was hosted by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education and the Basij Medical Society, with the contribution of a multitude of Medical Societies and Organizations.
The focus of the scientific program was on risk reduction to response and recovery in various fields of disasters and emergencies.
Dr. Leila Joudane, UNFPA Representative, attended in the panel on “UN agencies’ challenges and achievements for applying Sendai framework for action” and talked about the global UNFPA response in emergencies. In her presentation, she mentioned that globally UNFPA works closely with governments, UN agencies, community-based organizations and other partners to ensure that reproductive health is integrated into emergency responses. She further explained that UNFPA focuses on addressing the needs of women, including prevention of violence against women, as well as the needs of adolescents, girls and young people.
Dr. Joudane emphasized the issue of partnership in emergency response and mentioned that in 2017, UNFPA will move forward with partners to implement commitments made at the World Humanitarian Summit.
The three-day congress will end on 24 April.
