Draft Agenda
Tuesday 25 March
Marriott Panama Hotel
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ADR2025 Overview
The Americas, Latin America and the Caribbean face an ever-growing need for robust disaster relief solutions amidst escalating vulnerabilities to natural hazards, unquestionably driven by climate change. Challenges include rapid urbanisation, fragile infrastructure, and resource scarcity, compounded by hurricanes, earthquakes, and flooding. Effective disaster response requires seamless collaboration between public and private sectors across food security, healthcare, logistics, technology, and finance. Partnerships leverage private innovation and public systems to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery.
 
Through a range of workshops, exhibition, high-level discussion panels, networking and 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings, Action on Disaster Relief (ADR2025) highlights best practices, case studies, and opportunities for cross-sectoral engagement, fostering resilient communities and adaptive strategies to mitigate the profound humanitarian and economic impacts of disasters in the region.
 
Welcome to the 10th annual Action on Disaster Relief forum, dual-Chaired by UNDP’s Ronald Jackson and OCHA’s Rogerio Mobilia.
12:00 - 19:00
Pre-event Registration
Attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required). Sponsors are asked to setup their exhibition booths from 4pm onwards. The ADR registration desk will remain open all afternoon for those attending the afternoon workshops etc.
13:00 - 16:00
Site Visit (TBC) - Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH)
ADR2025 attendees are invited to visit* the Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH); an initiative of the Government of Panama created to incorporate emergency operations of several actors into one integrated modern logistics facility. The Centre was implemented by UNOPS (opened late 2019), under the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Government, in coordination with IFRC, UNHRD (WFP), and SINAPROC Panama who are the facility's primary users. Participants will visit the now-operational Regional Logistics Centre, be shown a presentation on the Centre before visiting the UNHRD, IFRC, and SINAPROC warehouses, and operations center situated at the Panamá Pacífico International Airport. This is a complimentary visit with transportation provided, which will depart (1PM) from and return (4PM) to the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby.
* sturdy, closed shoes required
16:30 - 18:30
Supplier/Procurement Workshops
A brace of workshops open to all ADR2024 attendees looking to find out more about how to become a supplier throughout the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region. Attendees will learn how and what is procured, including presentations detailing the online contracting portals used, the processes to become a registered supplier including how to obtain tender documents etc., with an opportunity for participants to ask questions.
19:00 - 21:00
Evening Networking Reception
Attendees are invited to meet at the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby Bar for an 'ice-breaker' Networking Reception to discuss the two days ahead in a relaxed and informal setting, whilst enjoying a range of canapés and refreshments. Also, an ideal opportunity for panellists to engage with ADR2025's dual-Chairpersons.
Wednesday 26 March
Marriott Panama Hotel
8:00 - 8:45
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2025 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
Headsets will also be available for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.
8:45 - 9:05
Opening Ceremony
Opening Remarks from PNYX and ADR2025's dual-Chairs, UNDP's Head of the Disaster Risk Reduction & Recovery Team (DRT) for Building Resilience, Ronald Jackson, and OCHA's Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC), Rogerio Mobilia.
9:05 - 9:15
Opening Keynote Address
9:15 - 10:15
Panel 1: Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness
ADR2025’s opening panel explores strategies to enhance disaster risk reduction (DRR) and preparedness across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region, a hotspot for natural hazards like hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Key issues include improving early warning systems, and addressing the vulnerabilities of marginalised communities who often lack the infrastructure and training to respond effectively. Panellists discuss the critical role of public-private partnerships in mobilising resources, fostering innovation, and ensuring effective disaster response. Topics of focus include leveraging technology, real-time data collection, government readiness, and promoting community engagement to reduce risks and enhance preparedness for a sustainable, resilient future.
10:05 - 10:15
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:15 - 10:35
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:35 - 10:45
Keynote Address
10:45 - 11:45
Panel 2: Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Management
Panel two explores critical pathways for climate change adaptation in the region, focusing on the intersection of finance, local communities, and public-private sector partnerships. The discussion addresses securing funding for resilient infrastructure, empowering local communities to lead adaptation efforts, and fostering innovative collaborations between governments, businesses, and civil society. Panellists highlight regional challenges, such as rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and agricultural vulnerabilities, while highlighting success stories and scalable solutions. The session aims to inspire actionable strategies for sustainable development, ensuring that adaptation efforts are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to diverse local needs.
11:35 - 11:45
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
11:45 - 12:05
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:05 - 13:05
Panel 3: Health Services and Public Safety
Concluding day one, panel three explores key challenges and opportunities in health services and public safety across the Americas, Latin America and the Caribbean. Emphasising the need to ensure access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services and adequate medical facilities, particularly in underserved local communities. Panellists discuss innovative public-private sector partnerships to improve healthcare infrastructure, enhance emergency preparedness, and address social determinants of health. Panel three highlights successful community-driven solutions, regional collaboration strategies, and the role of technology in improving outcomes. Insights aim to foster inclusive policies and sustainable practices that strengthen resilience and promote equitable health and safety standards region-wide.
12:55 - 13:05
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:05 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:30
Disaster Relief Public-Private Sector Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session devoted to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government, UN, Disaster Agency and NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global operators. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique opportunity to discuss disaster reduction, response and relief solutions across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region.
19:00 - 19:30
Event Dinner - Transport
For those that require it, transport is included with an ADR2025 Event Dinner Ticket (please confirm at the on-site PNYX registration desk). Transport will depart from the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby at 7PM for a 7:30PM start, returning back to the Hotel at approx. 10PM.
17:30 - 17:30
Event Dinner
ADR2025 attendees are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, to experience the food, ambience and entertainment Panama City has to offer. A relaxed evening of further networking and discussion whilst enjoying refreshments and great food! For more information, please contact a member of the PNYX team.
Thursday 27 March
Marriott Panama Hotel
8:15 - 8:55
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2025 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
Headsets will be available again for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.
8:55 - 9:10
Day Two Welcoming Remarks
ADR2025's dual-Chairs, UNDP's Head of the Disaster Risk Reduction & Recovery Team (DRT) for Building Resilience, Ronald Jackson, and OCHA's Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC), Rogerio Mobilia.
9:10 - 9:20
Keynote Address
9:20 - 10:20
Panel 4: Resilient Infrastructure and Reconstruction
ADR2025’s day two opening panel explores strategies to strengthen infrastructure resilience and accelerate reconstruction efforts in a region prone to natural disasters and climate-related risks. Key issues include the provision of shelter and support for displaced populations, fostering local community engagement, and leveraging public-private partnerships to enhance resource mobilisation and innovation. Panellists discuss integrating disaster risk reduction into infrastructure planning, rebuilding with sustainable materials, and ensuring equitable access to safe housing. By highlighting successful case studies and collaboration models, the panel aims to chart a path toward recovery solutions that promote long-term resilience and inclusivity across the Americas, Latin America and the Caribbean region.
10:10 - 10:20
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:20 - 10:40
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:40 - 10:50
Keynote Address
10:50 - 11:50
Panel 5: Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Panel five explores key challenges and opportunities in humanitarian logistics and supply chain management across the region. With a focus on emergency response, the discussion addresses the complexities of reaching remote and disaster-prone areas, ensuring timely delivery of aid and resources. Panellists highlight innovative approaches to overcoming infrastructure and logistical bottlenecks, including the role of technology and data-driven solutions. Emphasis will also be placed on strengthening public-private sector partnerships to enhance resilience, coordination, and efficiency in disaster preparedness and response, ensuring equitable and sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations in the region.
11:40 - 11:50
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
11:50 - 12:10
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:10 - 13:10
Panel 6: Communications and Information Management
ADR2025’s concluding panel explores critical issues in communications and information management for the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region, emphasising financial sustainability, resilience against disruptions, and empowering local communities. Key topics include enhancing infrastructure to ensure robust disaster response, promoting inclusive technologies for underserved populations, and fostering public-private partnerships to drive innovation and resource sharing. Panellists discuss strategies for improving data security and inter-agency coordination, addressing challenges unique to the region’s geography and socio-economic diversity. By aligning investments and policies with regional needs, the session aims to outline a resilient and equitable path forward for sustainable communications systems.
13:00 - 13:10
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:10 - 13:30
Recognition & Thanks
Thanks and recognition from PNYX and ADR2025's dual-Chairs, UNDP's Head of the Disaster Risk Reduction & Recovery Team (DRT) for Building Resilience, Ronald Jackson, and OCHA's Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC), Rogerio Mobilia.
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:30
Disaster Relief Public-Private Sector Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session devoted to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government, UN, Disaster Agency and NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global operators. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique opportunity to discuss disaster reduction, response and relief solutions across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region.