More than a response
Since it was launched, there have been more than 160 MNO signatories of the HCC, operating in 112 countries. MNOs work to restore connectivity in times of disaster and coordinate for a better standard of preparedness and response to sudden onset emergencies.
Resilience
The HCC supports MNOs so that they can be equipped and prepared to respond to a disaster effectively and efficiently. With a resilient core structure and role understanding, MNOs can help ensure the safety of the affected population and staff in the face of disaster.
Preparedness
The HCC has a clear set of guidelines and best practices that support MNOs to prepare for each stage of an emergency. Preparedness for sudden onset emergencies ensures the functionality of vital early warning systems and network infrastructure that stays active at each stage of a disaster.
Collaboration
The HCC provides guidance on building cooperative and unified relationships with each vital party involved in disaster response. When humanitarian agencies, government bodies and MNOs have a clear understanding of their role in a disaster, it can minimise fatalities and ensure the upkeep of essential infrastructure before, during and after. Collaboration is vital for effective humanitarian response.
Our work towards the HCC
From convening public-private partnerships and providing technical assistance to workshops and events.
July 2025
Leveraging cell broadcast for disaster preparedness, response and recovery in the Pacific Islands
February 2025
AXIAN Telecom Group become the latest signatory of the Charter
December 2024
Humanitarian Connectivity Charter workshop in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union and UNICEF Pakistan
June 2024
Hormuud Telecom Somalia Inc. become the latest signatory of the Charter at the Nairobi Humanitarian Connectivity Charter workshop
The HCC in action
This includes accessibility services, setting up temporary mobile networks, sharing network infrastructure and more.
Taking positive action
The mobile industry continues to use its scale and reach to positively contribute to preparedness during a disaster situation. With the humanitarian sector and other partners, the mobile industry has a crucial role to play in humanitarian response.
Get the full story
Building a Resilient Industry: How Mobile Network Operators Prepare for and Respond to Natural Disasters
An interactive guide for MNOs based on experiences with the Humanitarian Connectivity Charter.
Mobile-Enabled Early Warning Systems: The GSMA and the Early Warnings for All Initiative
This briefing note provides a snapshot of the GSMA’s strategy and activities as as part of the 3rd Pillar of the Early Warnings for All Initiative, which focuses on “warning dissemination and communication”.
Cell Broadcast for EWS: A review of the technology and how to implement it
This report presents the opportunities, challenges and considerations associated with cell broadcast-enabled EWS.
EWS in the Philippines: Building resilience through digital technologies
Learn about MNOs historical disasters have led to developing early warning systems (EWS) and the challenges that persist due to fragmentation, coordination issues, and limited local impact forecasting.
Typhoon Rai Response: The role of the mobile industry
Read how MNOs restored connectivity to help people communicate and coordinate relief efforts after Typhoon Rai.
Italy Earthquake Response and Recovery: A disaster response case study
Download this case studyHCC supports MNO emergency preparedness and response
The GSMA provides technical support and stakeholder coordination as part of being a HCC signatory. For more information, contact us today.
THIS INITIATIVE IS CURRENTLY FUNDED BY UK INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FROM THE UK GOVERNMENT AND IS SUPPORTED BY THE GSMA AND ITS MEMBERS. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE UK GOVERNMENT’S OFFICIAL POLICIES.