Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a very important role in health emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, innovative local initiatives and civil society mobilizations were critical to delivering public health and primary care, supporting livelihoods, ensuring food security and providing psychosocial support. CSOs are pivotal partners in development and are among the first responders to emergencies, reaching the most vulnerable and often, in areas where governments have no or very limited access, and they can work flexibly and creatively to meet the needs of the emergency. They are also often trusted by communities they represent.
A Framework for Civil Society Engagement in Health Emergencies” was developed to enhance inclusive community-centred decision-making, planning and implementation along with shared, all-partner accountability for efficient emergency prevention, preparedness, readiness, response, recovery, and resilience. It is practical tool for WHO staff, WHO partners and national governments on steps to support a harmonized, multi- stakeholder approach to strengthening community resilience to emergencies.
Objectives
The objective of this webinar is to introduce the framework and the 10 steps, and share experiences of the critical role of CSOs and their successful engagement in health emergencies.
Speakers
Introduction of EPI-WIN, housekeeping, introduction to topic and speakers and slido: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO HQ
Welcome remarks: Stella Chungong, Director, Department of Health Security and Emergency Preparedness, WHO HQ
Role of CSOs in Community Protection: Kai Von Harbou, Unit Head, Community Protection and Resilience Unit, WHO HQ
Overview of the Framework for CSO engagement in public health emergencies: Supriya Bezbaruah, Community Protection and Resilience Unit, WHO HQ
The WHO CIVIL Society Commission: Michele Thulkanam (TBC)
Regional and national Perspective: Reuben Samuel, Programme Area Manager WHO SEARO & MoH representatives
CSO perspective: Patrick Okwen, eBASE
The role of CSOs in UHPR
Q&A