IFRC launches "Earth’s Missing Treaty" campaign to push for a UN disaster-protection treaty

Dylan Winder, permanent observer to the United Nations for the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, launched a global campaign called "Earth's missing treaty" aimed at creating the world's first comprehensive treaty "dedicated to protecting people before, during, and after disasters." He said the treaty would create a common framework to speed humanitarian teams, simplify customs procedures, and make disaster risk reduction a duty for states.

"It's a global campaign calling for the world's 1st comprehensive international treaty dedicated to protecting people before, during, and after disasters," Winder said. He stressed the campaign's goal is not to replace national action but to provide predictable international cooperation when national capacity is overwhelmed. The IFRC will support implementation work and technical advice if member states adopt a treaty.

Winder framed the talks as urgent: he said UN member states will begin negotiations next year and that states have agreed to conclude negotiations by the end of 2027. He also said IFRC partners and volunteers will play a role in implementing treaty obligations at the technical level if the agreement is adopted.