WA EMD hosts Thai delegation to share best practices

WA EMD hosts Thai delegation to share best practices

Washington Emergency Management Division Hosts Thai Delegation to Share Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Best Practices

The Washington Emergency Management Division recently welcomed a delegation from Thailand for a joint meeting focused on sharing disaster procedures, practices and lessons learned.

The event was led by COL Viwatanant Poonkitti, deputy director of the Psychology Office, Directorate of Civil Affairs, and Taylor Dietz, human services program manager with EMD. The discussions brought together leaders and practitioners from both sides to exchange perspectives on disaster management, public assistance and community recovery programs.

Both groups shared experiences, stories and general best practices in responding to emergencies, strengthening recovery frameworks, and supporting communities during times of crisis. The exchange highlighted similarities in challenges faced by both Washington and Thailand, as well as opportunities for international collaboration and mutual learning.

"This meeting underscored the value of partnership and dialogue," said Dietz. "By learning more about each other's programs, we strengthen not only our own emergency management systems but also the global community's ability to prepare for and recover from disasters."

Poonkitti, who has previously served as director of Planning and Policy Division and the Education Division within Thailand's Civil Affairs School, emphasized the importance of building lasting relationships.

The delegation also toured the State Emergency Operations Center, observed Washington's integrated response systems, and discussed approaches to recovery, mitigation and long-term community resilience.