UN-SPIDER

thumb|right UN-SPIDER (United Nations Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response) is a platform which facilitates the use of space-based technologies for disaster risk management and emergency response. It is a programme under the auspices of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).

==Space technology for disaster risk management and emergency response== Global vulnerability to natural hazards and disasters is likely to increase as the impact of climate change and land degradation processes continue to rise along with rapidly growing populations. Earthquakes, floods, storms, and other natural hazards cause massive disruption to societies and overburden national economic systems. Considerable losses of life and property, however, could be avoided through better information about the risk and onset of disasters, improved risk assessment, end-to-end, people-centered Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS), Anticipatory Action (AA), and disaster monitoring. In recognition of these needs the United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 61/110 of 14 December 2006, acknowledged that the use of existing space technology, such as earth observation and meteorological satellites, communication and navigation satellites can play a major role in supporting disaster management by providing accurate and timely information for decision making. Space-based information is relevant in all phases of the disaster management cycle from disaster risk reduction to disaster response and recovery.