In this issue

Earth Observation for Disaster Response 1

Pakistan: Monitoring Floods from Space 2

Satellite Based Drought Monitoring in Iran 3

Organisational Mechanisms 4

Interview: Stefan Voigt, DLR 5

Open Access: The International Charter Space and Major Disasters 6

Thousands still need proper shelter in flood affected areas RCS chairman hands over newly constructed houses to flood victims in Goth Machi

With this Revised Emergency Appeal, the budget has been revised down from CHF 92.6 million to CHF 88.2 million, assisting 900,000 people (130,000 families) beneficiaries for 36 months, and will be completed by 31 July 2013. This revision is based on the actual expected outcomes at the end of the appeal period and in addition includes a relocation of CHF 1,650,377 in support of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) for its relief activities to assist communities affected by the floods in 2012. An unspent balance of CHF 4.4 million remains as a result of the revised budget and plans.

Since floods devastated Pakistan in 2010, affecting some 18 million people, USAID has been supporting the critical work of the Pakistan Floods Shelter Cluster.

The World Bank’s Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) and the Country Partnership Strategy Progress Report are directly linked to Pakistan’s own development vision. The Bank’s long-term commitment to education, energy and its support for rural infrastructure, and its engagement in policy dialogues is helping Pakistan achieve its development objectives.

Overcoming physical disabilities to help communities thrive

At Action Against Hunger, we help people who face extreme hardships every day to survive. Many lack access to basic necessities like food and water; others are struggling to rebuild after a disaster. On top of these difficulties, some people we serve also have physical limitations that make their situations even more challenging. But our work with these extraordinary people proves that disability does not mean inability, and that everyone can contribute in their own way to community development.

Today is International Women’s Day—a day to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of women around the world. Here at Action Against Hunger, we meet so many women worth celebrating. In times of disaster and conflict, women and girls can be particularly vulnerable groups, but we serve countless women who show extraordinary resilience, dedication, and bravery in the face of adversity. In honor of International Women’s Day, today we are highlighting recent stories about women in Pakistan who found unique ways to use their skills to help rebuild their villages.

GLIDE n° FL-2010-000141-PAK

Period covered by this Ops Update: 1 September to 30 November 2012.

Appeal target (current): CHF 92.6 Million;

Appeal coverage: 99%;

Appeal history:

• Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF): CHF 250,000 was allocated on 30 July 2010 to support the National Society’s response to the emergency.

• A preliminary emergency appeal was launched on 2 August 2010 for CHF 17,008,050 for nine months to assist 175,000 beneficiaries.

ABSTRACT