Page 2 – INSARAG

From 23 to 27 March 2026, the National Fire Agency (NFA) of the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with the Korea Disaster Relief Team (KDRT), hosted the Urban Search and Rescue Coordination Cell (UCC) Course in Busan, Republic of Korea.

The course brought together 22 participants from eight international Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, engaged in practical exercises and knowledge exchange, contributing to a more cohesive and capable global USAR network. The training reinforced regional cooperation and advanced a shared commitment to effective, coordinated disaster response. Delivered under the guidance of expert instructors from the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), the training focused on strengthening coordination capacities in line with INSARAG methodology, promoting interoperability, and enhancing readiness for complex emergency operations.

The successful completion of the course by all participants reflects the continued dedication of USAR teams to uphold INSARAG standards and further improve collective response capabilities. This training course underscores the importance of international collaboration in ensuring timely, efficient, and life-saving assistance in disaster-affected areas.

Appreciation is extended to the NFA and the KDRT for hosting the course, and to the expert instructors from Australia, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea for their invaluable contributions.

The International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) held its annual Steering Group meeting on 10 March 2026 in Geneva with 256 participants in person and online. The group reviewed regional and thematic progress and endorsed important topics, such as the 2026 INSARAG Guidelines, and the INSARAG Strategy for 2026-2030.

Congratulations to the Hong Kong China Search and Rescue Team (HKGSART, CHN-03) for successfully passing the INSARAG External Classification (IEC) in Hong Kong, China, between 16–20 March 2026! CHN-03 is the 61st INSARAG-classified team globally and the 3rd classified team from China. This recognition affirms the exceptional skill and commitment to international search and rescue of the team. The INSARAG Secretariat extends its most sincere congratulations.

Congratulations to the United Arab Emirates (UAE USAR TEAM) (UAE-01) Team for successfully passing the INSARAG External Reclassification (IER) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, between 07-13 February 2026! This recognition affirms the exceptional skill and commitment to International Search and Rescue of the team. The INSARAG Secretariat extends its most sincere congratulations.

Congratulations to the 7th French Battalion For Civil Protection (FRA-03) Team for successfully passing the INSARAG External Reclassification (IER) in France, between 26-30 January 2026! This recognition affirms the exceptional skill and commitment to International Search and Rescue of the team. The INSARAG Secretariat extends its most sincere congratulations.

On 6 February 2026, AKUT Search and Rescue Association issued a Letter of Remembrance and Appreciation to the INSARAG community, marking the anniversary of one of the most devastating disasters in Türkiye’s history. The message pays tribute to international Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams that rapidly deployed from around the world, leaving their homes and families to help save lives in the affected areas.

The letter recalls how international and national teams worked side by side in the rubble, demonstrating professionalism, courage and compassion, and bringing hope when hope seemed lost. It emphasizes that these efforts embodied INSARAG’s principles of cooperation, coordination and mutual support, and showcased the true meaning of international solidarity.

AKUT extends its deepest gratitude to all INSARAG teams and to the INSARAG Secretariat for their leadership, coordination and unwavering support during the response.

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