New Acropolis in Chile organised a training workshop on disaster management and humanitarian volunteering.

In collaboration with Asociación GEA España and Esfera España, New Acropolis Chile held an outstanding workshop on disaster management and humanitarian volunteering.

The event counted with the special participation of Iván Rodes, a renowned expert in Disaster Management with more than 30 years of experience in the Spanish Fire Brigade. In addition to his experience in multiple humanitarian aid operations, Rodes is a specialist in Eastern and Western Philosophy, and a lecturer in educational institutions in several countries. He also currently holds the position of International Secretary for Volunteering at New Acropolis International Organisation, establishing himself as a key figure in the field of humanitarian volunteering.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of professionals and volunteers from flagship organisations such as Bomberos de Chile, Chilean Red Cross, and the National Civil Protection Centre (Cenaproc), as well as representatives from municipalities and foundations. Attendees, including coordinators, operational managers and volunteers, stood out for their commitment to civil protection and emergency management, underlining the importance of inter-agency collaboration for effective disaster response.
Lessons learned included the ethical and psychological training of emergency teams, the difference between emergencies and disasters, and the importance of mobilising and coordinating humanitarian action. In addition, talent management, mental health in crisis situations and coexistence in intervention teams were highlighted. The workshop concluded with an assessment of preparedness for immediate response and a dialogue on the importance of networks for the effective management of humanitarian work. Iván Rodes closed the event with general comments, reinforcing the need for continuous training and inter-agency coordination in the field of disaster management.