ICRC Publishes Best Practices

Operational best practices regarding the management of human remains and information on the dead by non-specialists is the title of a new publication on the subject from the International Committee of the Red Cross. It is a compilation of all recommendations and best practices relating to the proper handling of the remains of those who die directly or indirectly due to an armed conflict or internal violence, for implementation by non-specialists. The publication enables humanitarian organizations to incorporate these recommendations and best practices into their policies, training and operations. Download a PDF version of the manual from www.icrc.org/eng (search for “operational best practices”). More on the same topic in the PAHO/WHO publication Management of Dead Bodies in Disaster Situations at www.paho.org/disasters (click on Publications Catalog).

Compendium of Articles Seeks
to Define Disasters

What is a Disaster? New Answers to Old Questions is the title of a new volume, edited by R.W. Perry and E.L. Quarantelli, which addresses this most basic question: that of defining the phenomenon. It is important that researchers begin to develop a consensus about the meaning of disasters and related phenomena and this book brings together 12 social scientists to share their definition and vision of disasters. In the process, a wide range of views are expressed and issues raised regarding the relationship of academic vs. practical definitions and the impact of grouping types of disasters in different ways. The editors close the volume with discussions of an agenda for disaster research in the twenty-first century.

The book, published in 2005 and available in English only, can be purchased from Xlibris Publishers (www.Xlibris.com; Orders@Xlibris. com) for US$25.

The Tsunami and After: WHO’s Role

“The aftermath of the tsunami presented a great public health challenge to WHO. However, every disaster presents opportunities to both countries and international agencies to strengthen their capabilities and capacity,” said Dr. Samlee Plianbangchang, WHO’s s South-East Asia Regional Director. Health systems in many of the affected countries had been devastated. For example, in Aceh, Indonesia, 53 of the 244 health facilities were destroyed or severely incapacitated. Fifty-seven of the 497 provincial health office staff died, while 59 were reported missing. WHO assisted the health sectors of the affected countries, at their request, to strengthen their resources and set up systems where they had been destroyed. In meeting the needs of the affected areas, WHO also provided technical guidelines and medical supplies. Resources were mobilized in partnership with the government health authorities.