The Iranian Red Crescent Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross recently held a webinar on early rehabilitation. The event aimed to enhance early rehabilitation services during conflicts and disasters. Experts from the ICRC, the World Health Organization, and the IRCS collaborated to organize the session. Participants from 40 countries attended, sharing knowledge and experiences.
This webinar followed a previous rehabilitation conference held earlier this year. It concentrated on identifying operational obstacles and improving structural preparedness. Experts also discussed the development of emergency operational plans. The program highlighted the ways the IRCS integrates rehabilitation services into rapid disaster responses.
The main goal of the webinar was to improve the quality and effectiveness of rehabilitation services. National societies were encouraged to adopt better practices during disaster and conflict situations. The discussions focused on turning humanitarian commitments into practical actions. No person, especially those with disabilities, should be excluded from receiving support.
Vincent Cassard, the ICRC representative, addressed the participants and announced the creation of the International Secretariat on Disability and Rehabilitation. This initiative, led by the IRCS, aims to strengthen rehabilitation support globally. Cassard emphasized that collaboration between humanitarian organizations and international institutions is essential. He praised the cooperation among the IRCS, WHO, and Red Cross and Red Crescent members.
He also noted that recent workshops offered national societies valuable insights. These workshops showed how to integrate rehabilitation services into crisis responses effectively. They demonstrated how national capacities, like the IRCS, can serve as a model for the region. The findings highlighted the importance of structured planning and cooperation to improve disaster readiness.
The official further explained that this webinar is not just a one-time event. It represents an ongoing commitment to upholding human dignity and reducing human suffering. By sharing knowledge and best practices, humanitarian organizations can strengthen their response efforts. Experts agreed that collaboration, planning, and training are key to successful rehabilitation during emergencies.
Overall, the webinar successfully emphasized early rehabilitation as a vital part of disaster and conflict response. National societies now have a stronger framework to support affected populations. Through ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing, these organizations aim to enhance the efficiency and reach of humanitarian services worldwide.