CDEMA, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, is a regional inter-governmental agency dedicated to disaster management in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Established in 1991 as CDERA (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency), CDEMA's primary responsibility is coordinating emergency response and relief efforts for Participating States in need of assistance. In 2009, CDEMA transitioned to embrace Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM), an integrated and proactive approach to disaster management that aims to reduce hazards, climate change effects, and promote sustainable development.

CDEMA comprises nineteen Participating States, including CARICOM and Non-CARICOM Member States of the Caribbean region. Their mandate involves mobilizing and coordinating disaster relief, mitigating consequences, providing immediate response to affected states, and sharing reliable information on disasters. CDEMA also encourages the adoption of disaster reduction policies, facilitates cooperative arrangements, and coordinates the establishment of emergency response capabilities.

Governed by the Council, CDEMA ensures stakeholder participation through the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and the Coordinating Unit. The TAC advises on technical and programmatic aspects, while the Coordinating Unit manages four key programming areas: education, research and information; finance and administration; preparedness and response; and mitigation and research. CDEMA is headquartered in Barbados and plays a vital role in promoting resilience and sustainable development in the Caribbean region.

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