The Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) has recently established a forum of communication and action through a network of entities both inside and outside of government. Corporations, industry, Chambers of Commerce -- along with UN agencies, private voluntary organizations and government agencies involved in humanitarian assistance will have an opportunity to share their expertise and experiences in international disaster preparedness, mitigation, and prevention and relief programs.

Representation from the corporations and agencies involved with international communications, health, marketing and trade, education, engineering, tourism and technical sectors have already joined the CIDI Private Sector partnership program.

There is absolutely no cost to participate in this partnership.

The CIDI makes available the following resources:

• Current international disaster situation reports U.N., Red Cross, U.S. Government, etc.
• Information on current needs in response to international emergencies, as well as guidance useful for corporate participation in humanitarian affairs.
• Links and referrals to relief organizations operating in-country.
• Relevant articles, surveys, reports and resources to increase your company’s ready-alert capabilities in disaster-prone countries.
• Information and contacts to help your overseas affiliates reduce future disaster-related losses.

Your company’s participation and collaboration and the exchange of preparedness information and recovery techniques will be a powerful disaster recovery tool, not only for your business, but for the international community as well.