Overview
Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) is an academic research centre established in 1973 and hosted by UCLouvain in Belgium. It focuses on advancing knowledge on disasters, their impacts on populations, and strategies to reduce disaster risk.CRED’s overarching purpose is to support evidence-based decision-making by governments, international organisations, researchers, and practitioners working on disaster risk reduction and resilience.
Mission and focus areas
CRED’s mission is to improve understanding of the human and economic impacts of disasters in order to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response. Its work centres on disaster epidemiology, vulnerability analysis, health impacts, and long-term socioeconomic consequences of natural and technological hazards.The centre contributes indirectly to sustainability and ESG-related analysis by providing data and research relevant to climate risk, resilience, social vulnerability, and systemic risk. These insights are increasingly used in climate adaptation planning, public policy, and risk assessment frameworks relevant to sustainable finance.
Structure and governance
CRED operates as a specialised research centre within UCLouvain’s Institute of Health and Society. It is led by an academic director and supported by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, data specialists, and project staff.
The centre collaborates extensively with UN agencies, governments, NGOs, and research institutions. Its governance and operations follow university standards, with research agendas shaped by funded projects, partnerships, and academic priorities rather than commercial mandates.
Programs and offerings
CRED is best known for managing EM-DAT, the International Disaster Database, one of the most widely used global sources of disaster impact data. EM-DAT is used by policymakers, researchers, insurers, and international organisations to analyse trends, assess risk, and inform preparedness strategies.In addition to EM-DAT, CRED produces peer-reviewed research, analytical reports, policy briefs, and training programmes. It also provides technical support and capacity building for institutions working on disaster risk reduction, humanitarian response, and resilience planning.
