The Azerbaijan International Search and Rescue Team has been awarded an international certification, reflecting their professionalism in the field of search and rescue (photo)

From September 23 to 26, 2024, International Search and Rescue Team (ISAR) of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Republic of Azerbaijan underwent the international classification process conducted by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) under the framework of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). The process was overseen by senior officials from the UN OCHA, including Winston Chang, Head of the INSARAG Secretariat and Global Networks & Emergency Response Section of UN OCHA. The evaluation was monitored by a delegation comprising evaluators from 11 countries and observers from 7 countries.

As part of the evaluation process, presentations were initially made regarding the Ministry's capabilities in participating in international humanitarian operations, and experts' questions were answered.

Following this, International Search and Rescue Team (ISAR) of the Ministry of Emergency Situations commenced a continuous 36-hour tactical-special exercise aimed at achieving international classification under the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). The exercise took place in the areas of Turkan and Hovsan settlements in the capital, involving personnel and equipment from the  International Search and Rescue Team of the Ministry, as well as the Administration of the Regional Medical Divisions (TABIB) and emergency volunteers. The tactical-special exercise was observed live by a delegation led by Winston Chang, Head of the INSARAG Secretariat and Global Networks and Emergency Response Section, along with international evaluators and observers.

During the tactical-special exercise, procedures such as mobility, planning, logistics, assessment of the disaster area, rescue of victims trapped under rubble, rescue of people stranded at heights, provision of first aid, evacuation, and support for coordination of operations in the affected country were carried out. In the nighttime phase of the exercise, continuous search and rescue operations were ensured, with strict adherence to safety protocols and the protection of life and health. Throughout the exercise, special focus was placed on managing operations using modern international management and coordination systems.

The objectives set for the tactical-special exercise were successfully achieved.

After the 36-hour continuous tactical-special exercise concluded, a meeting of the evaluators was held. Based on the results of the meeting, a unanimous decision was made that the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Azerbaijan successfully passed the INSARAG international classification. As a result, the Ministry’s team will be represented on the international stage under the name "MUSAR AZE-01."

This achievement, in line with the relevant instructions of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, will enhance the effectiveness of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) in participating in international humanitarian operations.

On September 26, the Azerbaijan MES International Search and Rescue Team was awarded the certificate for successfully passing the INSARAG international classification, along with distinctive flags for the coordination groups and identification chevrons for the personnel, including TABIB medical staff.

It should be noted that the team's preparation for international classification was carried out under the mentorship of the Turkish Republic Ministry of Interior’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).