International Disaster Response Law – PDP 5The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) identified many legal problems that continually arise during international disaster relief deployments. In response the IFRC developed Guidelines to facilitate international disaster assistance. These guidelines are being applied around the world but have had little attention in Australia and New Zealand.

This workshop will introduce both the legal issues and the guidelines and encourage those involved in international emergency response to consider whether they are adequately prepared to deal with the issues both when sending assistance or when international assistance is flowing in.

Who Should Attend?

The session is highly relevant for managers of emergency services who are responsible for arranging international deployment. It is also suitable for members who may be asked to deploy internationally.

Facilitators:

This session will be facilitated by:

Michael Eburn Australian National University

Federico Casolari University of Bologna

John Cawcutt Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

Gabrielle Emery New Zealand Red Cross

Session Outline:Throughout the workshop participants will become familiar with legal issues that frequently arise during international deployment. Participants will be introduced to the Red Cross International Disaster Response guidelines as well as European and Australasian responses to manage these legal issues. Participants will then be better informed on the necessary steps when preparing international deployments.

Friday 5th September 2014

8:30am Welcome and Introductions

8:40amDiscussion: Gathering of Insight into the Collective Experience of the Group

Facilitator: Michael Eburn

09:00am

International Disaster Response Law (IDRL) and the Red Cross/Red Crescent Guidelines

Presenter: Federico Casolari

9:30amGiving effect to IDRL in Australia

Presenter: Michael Eburn

10:00am

Group Discussion

Facilitator: John Cawcutt

10:30am Morning Tea

11:00am

Overcoming (or getting around) the legal barriers - Practical experience in sending international disaster assistance

Presenter: John Cawcutt

11:30am

Overcoming (or getting around) the legal barriers - Practical experience in receiving international disaster assistance

Presenter: Gabrielle Emery

12:00pm

Discussion on other experiences and solutions. Are we ready to receive international assistance? Facilitator: Michael Eburn

12:30pm Session Close

For further information regarding PD Sessions, visit the Program area of the 2014 Conference website: http://www.afac.com.au/conference or register at http://www.afac.com.au/events/conference/registration

Cost: NZ$185:00 (excl. GST)