The world is connected as never before. Radio reaches even the most remote and vulnerable, and the number of mobile phones has grown exponentially over the past decade. Still, as recent emergencies in Pakistan and Japan have shown us, communications networks can quickly fray in a natural disaster. The usefulness, of these tools depends on the context and the way populations already use them.
To better understand how communication tools and channels can help populations affected by disasters, the CDAC Network, in partnership with the UNFPA, BBC Media Action, and Google.org, and with sponsorship from the GSM Association Development Fund, is convening a Media and Technology Fair on 22 and 23 March in London.
This Media and Technology Fair will showcase emerging field practice and approaches, introduce a variety of media and technology tools, and examine how communicating with disaster-affected populations can help to improve outcomes.
Thursday’s panels will bring together senior decision makers, potential donors and people of influence alongside technologists and media experts. Friday’s activities will explore the practical implications of implementing channels for communicating with disaster-affected populations. The event aims to share ideas and foster new partnerships in a spirit of collaborative problem-solving.
To follow live the Media and Technology Fair please use the following link: http://www.cdacnetworkevent.tv/
Follow @CDACNetwork @UNFPA and #commisaid on Twitter for live coverage of the event