INSARAG

INSARAG, the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group, is a United Nations–organized global network of governments, civil protection authorities, and non-governmental organizations that coordinates international urban search and rescue USAR operations after disasters. Its mission is to save lives by enabling rapid, safe, and interoperable response through shared standards, training, and coordinated deployment.

INSARAG emerged in the early 1990s within the UN system to improve the effectiveness of international USAR efforts. It operates under the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and works through regional focal points and national authorities. The group develops guidelines, a classification and accreditation system for USAR teams, and procedures to ensure safety, compatibility, and efficient collaboration among diverse responders.

The network maintains a global roster of accredited USAR teams, categorized as Heavy USAR, Medium USAR, and Light USAR, with additional specialized capabilities. The INSARAG Guidelines address search and rescue techniques, casualty care, incident management, equipment standards, and field safety. Accreditation helps ensure teams meet minimum performance and safety requirements before deployment, facilitating smoother cooperation in the field.

Operations are initiated upon requests from the affected country and are coordinated with OCHA and local authorities. Teams deploy under agreed command and control structures, with emphasis on safety, cultural and linguistic considerations, and interoperability with local responders. In addition to real-time deployments, INSARAG conducts joint exercises, training, and capacity-building to enhance global USAR readiness.

INSARAG has contributed to international disaster response across many events, providing trained personnel, equipment, and coordination expertise to support life-saving search and rescue efforts worldwide.