Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team

The Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team [HOT] applies the principles of open source and open data sharing for humanitarian response and economic development.

Take the best elements of OpenStreetMaps (Emphasis on local knowledge, community driven, open data, and legal) and apply them to this who are most in need on this planet. The result are free, up-to-date maps, which are a critical resource when relief organisations are responding to disasters or political crises. The Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) creates and provides those maps.

  • Collaborative Maps for Humanitarian Aid: When major disaster strikes anywhere in the world, HOT rallies a huge network of volunteers to create, online, the maps that enable responders to reach those in need.
  • Partnerships: HOT assists international organizations as well as governments and first responders with mapping needs during disaster. Additionally, HOT participates in various long-term projects with our partners.
  • Technical Projects: HOT develops several open source programs and applications to leverage collaborative mapping and the use of new technologies in the field of geographic information for humanitarian aid. Check them out!
  • Community Development: HOT supports community mapping projects around the world and assists people to create their own maps for economic development and disaster preparedness. These local capacities enable people to take control of their own development.

Best of all, anyone in any part of the world can participate! No previous experience is necessary! It is very easy to begin mapping areas . All you need to get started is an OpenStreetMap account. 

Check out the current and urgent tasks at the HOT Tasking Manager