The World Customs Organization (WCO) will hold a Symposium on the “Role of Customs in Disaster Relief” on 3 November 2026, bringing together Customs administrations, international organizations and key stakeholders from the humanitarian community to examine how Customs can contribute to more effective, coordinated and future-ready disaster response.

As disasters and other catastrophic events become increasingly complex and frequent, the ability to move life-saving goods rapidly across borders is increasingly important. Customs administrations are at the forefront of these efforts, facilitating the timely clearance of humanitarian relief and critical medical supplies while helping maintain the continuity and resilience of cross-border supply chains.

Objective

To explore the role of Customs in facilitating disaster relief and strengthening preparedness for humanitarian emergencies, while providing a platform for Customs administrations and relevant stakeholders to share practical experiences, lessons learned and approaches.

Date and time: 3 November 2026, 13:00–15:15 (Brussels time)

Format: Hybrid – WCO Headquarters, Brussels and online

Languages: English and French (with simultaneous interpretation)

Registration: Open to WCO Members, industry, international organizations, humanitarian actors, academia, and the public.