Strengthening preparedness before emergencies occur is essential to protecting lives and health systems. Guided by the principle that preparedness today determines response tomorrow, the World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting Bhutan to further strengthen its emergency coordination mechanisms.
From 23–27 March 2026, more than 50 officials from across Bhutan have gathered in Paro for a national training on Emergency Operations Center (EOC) management. The initiative is being conducted by WHO in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, with financial support from the Pandemic Fund.
The training brings together a diverse group of participants including Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents, Public Health Officers, programme officers, health professionals, uniformed personnel, DeSuung volunteers, and representatives from disaster management and the Red Cross. This multi-sectoral participation reflects Bhutan’s whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to emergency preparedness and response.
Over the first two days, participants will be trained on the structure, functions and coordination mechanisms of an Emergency Operations Center. The training will then move into a simulation exercise (SimEx) to test response coordination and operational readiness. The programme will conclude with the finalization of Bhutan’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the EOC, an important step toward institutionalizing effective emergency coordination in the country.
Through technical support from the World Health Organization and funding support from the Pandemic Fund, this initiative underscores the importance of timely investments in preparedness. Strengthening systems, building capacity and enhancing coordination today will ensure that Bhutan is better equipped to respond rapidly and effectively to future public health emergencies.
This collaboration highlights the continued partnership between WHO, the Ministry of Health, and national stakeholders in building a resilient and prepared health system for Bhutan.