The UAE will join the international community in celebrating World Civil Defence Day, being marked this year under the theme, Civil Defence and Modern Media.
World Civil Defence Day, created by a decision of the International Civil Defence Organisation, ICDO, General Assembly in 1990, is celebrated every year on the 1st of March. This day commemorates the entry into force of the ICDO Constitution as an intergovernmental organisation in 1972 and has two main purposes: that of bringing to the attention of the world public the vital importance of Civil Protection and of raising awareness of the preparedness for, and prevention and self-protection measures in the event of accidents or disasters, and that of paying tribute to the efforts, sacrifices and accomplishments of all the national services responsible for the fight against disasters.
In the UAE, the government pays special attention to the day amidst the remarkable socio-economic progress and urban and demographic expansion in the county. The UAE has equipped the civil defence directorates with advanced technology using the principles of emergency operations: prevention, mitigation, preparation, response, or emergency evacuation and recovery as part of national plans to protect members of the public and property.
The day is an occasion for a variety of national events to increase levels of protective and preventive awareness, including conferences, radio and television debates, exhibitions, open days, and disaster prevention and simulation exercises. It also provides an opportunity to take stock of the development of civil protection structures and of the technical means and equipment currently available.
On 1st March, the Ministry of Interior will host a “Civil Defence and Modern Media Conference” to mark the celebrations.
(Courtesy WAM)
