Message on Behalf of Co-Chairs IASC Reference Group on Risk, Early Warning and Preparedness
 
As you may be aware the IASC Working Group (WG) has established a number of subsidiary bodies to carry forward its Work Plan.  One is the Reference Group on Risk, Early Warning and Preparedness (REAP).  WFP and UNDP have been confirmed as the initial Co-Chairs of REAP. There will be a requirement for close coordination between REAP and other IASC WG subsidiary bodies, in particular the Task Team on Strengthening the Humanitarian-Development Nexus (initially Co-Chaired by WHO and UNDP).
 
Please find attached the Terms of Reference of the REAP.  They are more comprehensive than would normally be the case to take into account inputs provided on the various lines of activity that will be a feature of the Group’s work.  This will facilitate more rapid development of the Work Plan.  
 
The core work of the group is supporting implementation and, where required, development/adjustment, of the IASC Emergency Response Preparedness (ERP) approach, supporting implementation of the IASC/UNDG UNISDR Common Framework for Preparedness (which was developed be one of REAP’s predecessor entities and covers national and local preparedness capacity), and production of IASC early warning in line with humanitarian principles.
 
We would like to convene the first formal meeting of the Group to develop the Work Plan in coordination with the Task Team on Strengthening the Humanitarian-Development Nexus.  This Task Team has indicated that their work planning session is likely to take place in the second or third week of May (after the “Grand Bargain” commitments are finalized).  Prior to this REAP’s Co Chairs will circulate a draft REAP Work Plan for comment.
 
An initial more limited meeting will take place from 1500-1700 on 3 May to obtain an update on the latest IASC Early Warning, Early Action Report and on the status of ERP implementation, future roll out plans and support requirements. The meeting will take place in Room 3 in Environment House. 
 
Best Regards
 
Tony Craig and Patrick Gremillet