Collaboration Between Japanese and Taiwanese Medical NGOs in Response to the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake

Summary: Peace Winds Japan (PW), a Japanese NGO, is working on the Mutual Learning Project for Emergency Medical Support in Disaster-Prone Countries to enhance international cooperation in disaster medicine and improve disaster response capabilities between Taiwan, the Philippines, and Japan. As part of this initiative, PW has conducted joint training with medical teams from each country. Building on these efforts, PW collaborated with a Taiwanese civilian medical team during the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January 2024 to support affected areas. This presentation reflects on its outcomes and challenges. On the day of the earthquake, PW dispatched a response team and immediately initiated contact with the Taiwanese team, joining in the field on the second day after the disaster. Over a week, the Taiwanese team provided support not only in healthcare but also in other areas. Specifically, they assisted PW’s medical team with patient consultations, vital sign measurements, organizing shelters, improving sanitary conditions, and distributing supplies. During the acute phase, when human resources were limited, the Taiwanese team’s support was essential and offered encouragement to those affected. The past training simulations proved effective, enabling smooth procedures, logistics, and communication. However, challenges remained, such as activity restrictions due to the lack of local medical license approval. This experience reinforced the importance of mutual understanding and relationship-building during non-emergency times. Moving forward, PW intends to address these challenges and further strengthen the acceptance system for international support. It is hoped that this initiative will extend beyond Taiwan and the Philippines, spreading to neighboring countries and having a broader impact across the region.