In February 2023, a series of devastating earthquakes struck southeastern Türkiye, causing widespread destruction, significant loss of life, and overwhelming local response capacities. Entire urban areas were heavily impacted, particularly in provinces such as Hatay, where critical infrastructure—including hospitals, communication networks, and public services—was severely damaged. The scale of the disaster required an immediate and coordinated international humanitarian response.
Rapid Activation of IHP and UCPM Mechanisms
Luxembourg responded rapidly by activating both the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP) and the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Within 48 hours, Luxembourg deployed two experts from the Humanitarian Intervention Team (HIT) of the CGDIS to support the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team in Hatay between 7 and 9 February.
To ensure continuity of support, four additional HIT experts were deployed shortly thereafter, extending Luxembourg’s operational presence until March. In total, the mission accounted for 125 person‑days of deployment, including support provided through the EU Civil Protection Team based in Gaziantep. The deployed experts specialised in ICT and logistics, contributing directly to coordination structures and field operations.
Restoring Connectivity Through emergency.lu
Given the destruction of telecommunications infrastructure, restoring connectivity was a critical priority. Luxembourg, through emergency.lu, deployed three satellite communication (SATCOM) systems to support key operational locations:
- The coordination centre in Hatay, enabling UNDAC and partners to coordinate response activities
- A reserve system for the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC)
- A system deployed at the Belgian First Aid and Support Team (B‑FAST) field hospital in Kırıkhan
Large‑Scale Humanitarian Assistance
In parallel with operational support, Luxembourg provided substantial in‑kind humanitarian assistance from its national stockpiles. The contribution included:
- 236 pallets of medical consumables, in cooperation with Fondation Hôpitaux Robert Schuman (HRS) and Rehazenter
- 12 generators, supporting emergency power needs
- 8,000 winter sleeping bags, addressing urgent shelter requirements
- 2,000 hygiene kits, supporting basic needs for affected populations
- 100 mobile toilets
- Medical transport crates (Type B), facilitating the safe transport of medical supplies
Coordinated Transport and Delivery
The transport operation was carried out through two dedicated Cargolux charter flights, departing Luxembourg for Incirlik/Adana on 22 February and 1 March 2023.
On arrival, the cargo was handled by DB Schenker, ensuring onward distribution and handover to Turkish authorities for integration into national response efforts.
Supporting Emergency Response and Recovery
Luxembourg’s contribution combined technical expertise, connectivity solutions, and essential relief items, supporting both immediate emergency response and early recovery efforts. By reinforcing coordination capacities, restoring communications, and delivering critical supplies, the operation contributed to stabilising humanitarian operations in one of the most severely affected regions.
This response highlighted Luxembourg’s ability to rapidly mobilise specialised capabilities and work within coordinated international frameworks, ensuring effective support during large‑scale humanitarian emergencies.
