Within the framework of SESRIC’s Palestine National Institutions Capacity Building Programme (PALESTINE-CaB) as well as the Disaster Risk Management Capacity Building Programme (DRM-CaB), the Centre, in collaboration with the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority of the Republic of Türkiye (AFAD), organised a study visit on “Decision-Making and Coordination Mechanisms during Emergencies” on 26–27 October 2026 for the benefit of the Palestinian Civil Defence (PCD) and Palestine National School of Administration (PNSA).

Within the framework of this activity, participants conducted several site visits to relevant institutions operating under the umbrella of AFAD, as well as to the National Medical Rescue Team (UMKE). The programme also included a visit to AFAD’s Earthquake Simulation Centre, where participants received practical training on earthquake preparedness and emergency response procedures. In addition, participants visited search and rescue teams, observed the use of search and rescue dogs in disaster response, and learned about the equipment and supplies used during earthquake emergencies, including the relevant storage facilities. These visits provided first-hand knowledge and practical insights into Türkiye’s approaches to disaster management, including emergency decision-making, coordination mechanisms and response operations, while facilitating the exchange of experiences and good practices.

The knowledge and experience gained are expected to inform the adaptation of effective practices to strengthen the disaster management capacities of the Palestinian Civil Defence (PCD) and the Palestine National School of Administration (PNSA).

For more information on the SESRIC’s Palestine National Institutions and Disaster Risk Management Capacity Building Programme, please visit https://www.sesric.org/cbp-palestinecab.php and https://www.sesric.org/cbp-oic-drm.php

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