ETC Annual Report 2023 now available
In 2023, the ETC confronted more emergencies than ever before. With 12 active emergency operations across the year, the cluster responded to new and protracted crises spanning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, devastating earthquakes that rocked Türkiye in February, the heartbreaking situation in Gaza, as well as three tropical cyclones which hit Vanuatu at both ends of 2023.
The year 2023 underscored the need for preparedness. As the frequency and intensity of disasters increase, so must the ETC be ready to respond quickly and effectively. This requires investing in prepositioning of equipment, contingency planning, building the capacity of those on the ground, and running simulation exercises—like the large-scale, interagency ‘gear.UP’—as well as building strong relationships with stakeholders and partners.
In a first, the ETC launched a new partnerships model in December which aims to change the way we engage with and manage our network of dedicated partners. The new model will enlarge the partner base and emphasize local as well as global partners. It will also streamline the processes and procedures for joining and contributing to the ETC, making it easier and more attractive for potential partners to get involved.
Innovation is a driving force for the ETC. This year, the Emergency Telecommunications Sector (ETS) in Nigeria developed the ‘CrisisNet’ kit—a portable, solar-powered device that provides internet connectivity and voice communication in remote and hard-to-reach areas. This innovative kit was successfully deployed in several locations in Nigeria, where it enabled humanitarians to access vital information and coordinate their activities.
While the ETC is proud of its achievements in 2023, we also recognize that there is still much work that remains to be done. We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners, donors, and host governments, without whom we could not fulfill our mission. We look forward to continuing our work in 2024 and beyond.