ICDO

The International Civil Defense Organization is an intergovernmental organization that seeks to ensure protection of people and safeguard property and the environment from natural or man made disasters. Its origins trace back to 1931 when the French surgeon general, Georges Saint-Paul founded the so called “Geneva Zones” which meant neutralized zones or open towns in which the injured and the poor could seek refuge during difficult times. Later on in 1958, the International Association of Geneva Zones was changed into the International Civil Defense Organization in which it expanded its role of establishing liaison between national Civil Defense Organizations, undertaking and promoting studies and research on population protection matters and facilitating the exchange of experience and the coordination of efforts in the area of disaster prevention, preparedness and intervention. As of today, the ICDO takes an active part in the work of the UN system in the field of humanitarian action and prevention of, and preparedness for emergency situations. Furthermore the ICDO is committed to help its Member states to improve the capacity of national civil defense institutions and regularly calls on experienced expert for assessing risks, providing advices and assists Member States in the implementation of new policies.