The RSIS’ Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Programme and Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP) co-hosted the second “Crisis Management: Navigating the Storm” executive course in Singapore. The five-day course had participants from government, military, international organisations, non-profits, and the corporate sector. They were provided with a 360-degree perspective on crisis management enabling them with confidence and ability to lead effectively in this ever-changing and turbulent world. Held in Singapore, the course focused on multiple—and often simultaneous—complex disasters affecting the Asia-Pacific region.

Combining the latest theory, best practice, and lessons learnt using real time simulations, participants tested their resilience as individuals, team members, and leaders. The course explores the behavioural aspects of crisis leadership and decision-making, and the impact of culture on assessing risk and building trust. Techniques to communicate effectively and manage stress during time-sensitive and high-stake situations to enhance team performance were examined. Participants also undertook a self-assessment that evaluated their preparedness to function in extraordinary and unstable events. Rather than a tick-box approach of a process driven response, participants learnt to recognise and adapt to the psychological and organisational elements of crisis management.

Local and international participants from Singapore, Australia, Romania, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, UK, and Mexico also engaged in several networking activities. This included an evening reception hosted by the Swiss Ambassador to Singapore; meeting with members of the Institute of Strategic and Risk Management at the launch of their Asia-Pacific chapter; visiting the Changi Regional HADR Coordination Centre to better understand military-to-military coordination in the Asia-Pacific; and sampling of local cuisine at a Tze Char restaurant in the historic Tiong Bahru.