Communications and mobile technology have become a lifeline during natural disasters for governments, humanitarian organisations and individuals alike.

Since 2012, the GSMA has been working with mobile network operators (MNOs) and policymakers as they navigate disasters and crises. In 2015, the GSMA launched the Humanitarian Connectivity Charter (HCC), an industry initiative to support MNOs in providing improved access to communication and information for those affected by crisis in order to reduce loss of life and positively contribute to humanitarian responses.

This interactive guide highlights lessons that the GSMA and MNOs have learned in preparing for and responding to sudden onset natural disasters.

Structured into 13 operational areas, the guide focuses primarily on the key phases and steps involved in preparing for and responding to disasters. The primary audience for this guide is MNOs that are beginning to think through their disaster response plans and are looking for guidance on how to improve their preparedness and response.