This Recommendation describes an international preference scheme for the use of public telecommunications by national authorities for emergency and disaster relief operations. The International Emergency Preference Scheme for Disaster Relief Operations (IEPS) is needed when there is a crisis situation causing an increased demand for telecommunications when use of the International Telephone Service may be restricted due to damage, reduced capacity, congestion or faults. In crisis situations there is a requirement for IEPS users of public telecommunications to have preferential treatment.