In November 2019, Albania was hit by a series of powerful earthquakes that caused widespread destruction, particularly in the capital, Tirana, and surrounding areas. Following the initial rescue phase, an UNDAC team was activated to assist the Albanian authorities in managing emergency sheltering and continued response efforts. The International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP) was called upon to support the UNDAC team’s operations.
IHP responded promptly, deploying two experts from Finland, who were members of the Finnish Rescue Team and deployed by the Emergency Services Academy Finland (ESAF). The experts arrived in Tirana on 20th December 2019, and their mission continued until the UNDAC team was demobilized on 6th January 2020.
The primary focus of IHP’s support was to provide the UNDAC team with essential information management, ICT, logistics, and technical support. In addition to fulfilling these initial requirements, the Finnish experts also contributed to several assessment missions during the operation, helping to further refine the humanitarian response. The IHP experts worked closely with the UN Resident Coordinator, who provided them with the necessary facilities and support to carry out their tasks efficiently.
The IHP’s contribution was highly appreciated by the UNDAC team, as it ensured the smooth flow of information and coordination, which was crucial to the effectiveness of the overall response.
Cover Photo Credit: IFRC
