The IDEAL Network is pleased to host the next session of its PPED Webinar Series, focusing on ongoing discussions surrounding a proposed international treaty on the protection of persons in the event of disasters (PPED).
 

This webinar is designed as an accessible introduction to what this potential international disaster law treaty could mean in practice for those working in disaster risk reduction, emergency response, humanitarian action, public policy, and related fields.
 

As disasters continue to increase in frequency and complexity, international discussions have increasingly turned to whether a dedicated legal framework is needed to strengthen cooperation between States, clarify responsibilities, and improve the protection of affected populations before, during, and after disasters.
 

Bringing together both academic and practitioner perspectives, the session will explore the evolving legal and policy landscape surrounding the proposed PPED framework and why these developments matter beyond legal circles.

 

🗓 Date: 13 May 2026
🕒 Time: 09:30–10:30 BST | 10:30–11:30 CEST | 11:30–12:30 EAT

 

Speakers
 

Therese O’Donnell (University of Strathclyde)
An expert in international law, her work explores the intersection between disaster law, climate change and broader questions of global justice.
 

Tommaso Natoli (IFRC)
Working within the Disaster Law programme of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, his work focuses on strengthening legal frameworks for disaster risk management and humanitarian assistance.
 

Emmanuel Kasimbazi (Makerere University)
Professor of Law at Makerere University, with extensive expertise in environmental law, natural resources law and disaster-related legal frameworks in the African context.
 

Chair
 

Holly Faulkner (University College Cork)
A researcher in disaster law and policy, her work focuses on international legal frameworks governing disaster risk reduction and response.