united nations system: an overlook of activities dedicated to disaster...
TRANSCRIPT
CHAPTER- III
UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM: AN OVERLOOKOF ACTIVITIES DEDICATED TO DISASTER
RISK REDUCTION
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CHAPTER- III
UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM: AN OVERLOOK OF ACTIVITIESDEDICATED TO DISASTER RISK REDUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The United Nations (here in after referred as UN) system is a mosaic that reflects
the complexity of activities necessary to fulfill the objectives and principles of the UN
charter. It is composed of principal bodies and operational programmes as well as number
of specialized agencies and other autonomous entities carrying out specific mandates.
For reducing the impacts of natural disasters UN has become relevant to growing a number
of departments, programmes and agencies because the disasters in many countries
especially the developing countries has outpaced governments ability to develop the
infrastructure and other services required to cope with disasters, creating significant
vulnerabilities and a strong reliance on international assistance. Moreover, the recognition
of disaster reduction as a building block of sustainable development has turned disaster
reduction into a core function of the UN family. Moreover the need for coordinated
approach to disaster risk reduction by the UN system has gained impetus as more countries
recognize their increased vulnerability and experience by more conspicuous damage
each year.
Therefore the UN1 system carryout active programme in support of disaster
reduction and many of them have strengthened their disaster reduction capacity in their
respective areas of competency during recent years. All these agencies work with regional,
national or local authorities. There are various interests and activities within the UN
system related to disaster risk reduction. Confronted with escalating financial costs of
natural disasters, the UN has been engaged on two fronts. One hand it has sought to bring
immediate relief to the victims, primarily through its operational agencies. On the other
hand, it has sought more effective strategies to prevent emergencies from arising in the
first place.the UN designated the second Wednesday of October as Internationl Day for
Disaster Reduction.2
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The principal organs of the UN like General Assembly (GA)3, Economic and Social
Council (ECOSOC)4 and the UN Secretariat5 act for reducing impacts and vulnerability
caused by disasters. In 1971 the General Assembly created an Office of the UN Disaster
Relief Coordinator for coordinating assistance in case of natural disasters and other
disaster situations. The ECOSOC has strongly recognized that the promotion of economic
growth and sustainable development cannot be achieved without adequate measures to
prevent and reduce the impact of natural disasters. Therefore it encouraged a coordinate
approach to disaster reduction within and outside the UN system6. Within UN Secretariat,
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) deals with the aspect of
disaster reduction. The initiatives taken by the UN has been classified by the working of
specialized agencies of the UN, the international conferences and conventions to mitigate
the impacts of natural disasters. Some of them are follows
United Nation International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (here in afterreferred as UN/ ISDR)
United Nation / ISDR7 is the focus point in the UN system to promote links and
co-ordination for disaster reduction activities in the socio economic, humanitarian and
development field, as well as to support policy integration.
ISDR also provides a global frame work for action with objective of reducing human,
social, economic and environmental losses due to natural hazards and related technological
and environmental phenomena.
Among the ISDR, General Assembly established two main institutional mechanisms
for Disaster risk reduction.
Figure No.3.1
ISDR
Inter – Agency Secretariat
ISDR Inter – Agency Task Force on Disaster Reduction
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The Inter – Agency Task Force on Disaster Reduction (here in after referred as IATF/DR)
IATF/DR is the principal body for the development of the disaster reduction policy.
It is established in 2000 and it is headed by UN under secretary general for humanitarian
affairs and it consist of 25 members from UN international Regional and civil society
organisations. It meets twice a year in Genève. The Director of ISDR Secretariat act as
the Secretary of Task Force.8
The purpose of IATF is to serve as the main forum within the UN for giving emphasis
on natural disaster reduction. The mandated functions of the IATF/DR are
a. Act as a device for formulating strategies and policies for the reduction natural
hazards.
b. To identify gaps in disaster reduction policies and programs and recommend
remedial actions.
c. To provide policy guidance to the ISDR Secretariat.
d. To conduct meetings to expert on issues related to disaster reduction.
IATS also discuss issues of common and global relevance to disaster reduction
such as climate variability, early warning vulnerability and risk analysis, wild land fires
and drought.
Figure No.3.2
Inter Agency Task Force
Formulate strategies
IATF Recommend remedial actions
Provide policy guidance
Conduct meetings
Inter Agency Secretariat for Disaster Reduction (here in after referred as ISDR)
ISDR is the focal point within the UN system9 for co-ordination of strategies of
programs for disaster reduction and ensure synergy between disaster reduction activities
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and activities in the socio-economic and humanitarian field. It also serve as an international
information clearing house on disaster reduction, developing awareness campaign and
producing articles, journals and other publication and promotional materials related to
disaster reduction. The main function of the secretariat is to support the IATF on disaster
reduction for the development of policies on disaster reduction.
The Task Force supported by ISDR Secretariat, formulated a frame work for action
in 2001 for the implementation of ISDR with 4 main objectives.
a. Increase public awareness to understand risk vulnerability and disaster
reduction globally10.
b. Promote the commitment of public authorities to disaster reduction11.
c. Expand the risk reduction networks though interdisciplinary and inter
sectoral partnerships12.
d. Improve scientific knowledge about disaster reduction.13
Figure No.3.3
Task Force supported by ISDR Secretariat
Increase public awareness
Promote commitments
Task Force &ISDR Secretariat Expand risk reduction network
Improve scientific knowledge
The world submit on sustainable development 2002 give a concrete set of objectives
within the sustainable development agenda to which both the IATF/DR and the UN/ISDR
along with partners, will increasingly turn their attention and capacities to increase and
mainstream risk reduction into development policies and processes.
United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (here in afterreferred as UNESCO)
Recently UNESCO play vital role in constructing a global culture of disaster risk
reduction. The main objective of UNESCO is to contribute to peace and security in the
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world by promoting collaboration among nations through educations, science, culture
and communication inorder to further universal respect for justice, the rule of law and
human rights and fundamental freedom.
The purpose of UNESCO in the field of natural disaster are to promote a better
scientific understanding to disaster and to setup reliable observatory and early warning
networks, promote to the adoption of suitable building design, contribute to the protection
of education buildings and cultural monuments, strengthen environmental protection
for the prevention of natural disasters, enhance preparedness and public awareness through
information and education and foster post disaster investigation. Thus UNESCO helps
the countries to reduce the vulnerability to natural disasters and provide to governments
practical and scientific advice on disaster reduction.14
UNESCO’s Post Disaster Activities
UNESCO responds to disaster effectively. In the after math of disaster’s, at the
request of the affected states UNESCO investigate and introduce transitional action to
draw lessons from the event and execute measures for reducing the impacts of disasters
as well as losses from any future events. The purpose of UNESCO in the field of natural
disaster are to promote a better scientific understanding of the distribution in time and
space of natural disasters, to setup reliable observatory and early warning networks, to
encourage the establishment of rational land use plans. UNESCO takes a multi disciplinary
approach to disaster reduction. There programs are oriented to scientific studies and an
interdisciplinary approach. UNESCO’s natural science sector15 cultural sector16 and
educational sector17 play a vital role disaster risk reduction.
UNESCO helps to handle the post disaster rehabilitation including
a Reconstruction of educational system18
b. Rebuilding global scientific capacity for disaster reduction.
c. Drawing lessons for future risk mitigation
d. Restore and protect to the threatened cultural and natural heritage etc.
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Figure No.3.4
UNESCO’s Post Disaster Activities
Reconstruct educational system
UNESCO Rebuild scientific capacity
Future risk mitigation
Protect and restore heritage
For responding for Tsunami UNESCO focus on priority areas like
1. Advocacy on technical support on education on disaster prevention and for
sustainable development.
2. Policy advice on inclusive education to meet the needs of school children
physically affected by the tsunami.
3. Give training for teachers and educational professionals
4. Community based educational rehabilitation
Figure No.3.5
UNESCO and Tsunami
Give technical support
UNESCO and Tsunami Policy advice to tsunami affected children
Give training to teachers
Community based educational rehabilitation
The scientific and technical works of UNESCO in disaster reduction is essentially
promoted by its natural hazards program in the earth science, by its intergovernmental
scientific programs such as the International Geological Correlation Programme
(IGCP)19, the Inter Hydrological Programme (IHP)20, and The Man and Biosphere
Programme (MAB)21.
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Apart from these programs there is also global observing system such as Global
Ocean Observing System (GOOS) the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) the
Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS).
United Nations Development Programme (Here in after referred as UNDP)
UNDP has been active in disaster reduction since World Conference on Disaster
Reduction22. In disaster prone countries UNDP assist in strengthening capacity to manage
the risk before and after disaster23. It gives top priority to the elimination of poverty and
building equity by providing development advice, advocacy and grant support. UNDP
mainly focusing for mainstreaming of gender equality and women’s empowerment
throughout its programs as an important means to achieve the millennium development
goals in accordance with national developments strategies. UNDP works with civil society
organizations, regional organizations etc. for the disaster risk management programs.
Bureau of Crisis Prevention and Recovery (here in after referred as BCPR)
UNDP in 2001 created a Bureau of Crisis Prevention and Recovery24 to restore
the quality of life for men women and children who have been devastated by natural
disasters or violent conflict. UNDP works to achieve its goal through BCPR. BCPR
provides a bridge between the activities of humanitarian agencies that handle immediate
life saving needs and development initiative following recovery. In addition they support
national authorities to create stability out of chaos though better planning reconciliation
and recovery efforts. The BCPR works with UNDP’s efforts for sustainable development
and establish a peaceful situation inorder to reduce the disasters and future disasters25.
BCPR also developed and agenda called “HOPE” for sustainable peace stability
and recovery in countries affected by conflict and natural disasters here ‘H’ stands for
healthy society26 ‘O’ stands for opportunity27 ‘P’ for protection28 and ‘E’ for
empowerment29.
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (here in after referred asOCHA)
OCHA30 is the arm of UN Secretariat that is responsible for bringing together
humanitarian actors to ensure coherent response to emergencies. It aims to alleviate
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human sufferings by facilitating international coordination for effective and efficient
delivery of assistance to the victims of disasters and complex emergencies. The objectives
of OCHA are to ensure relief in a manner that does not compromise future development
efforts. The key functioning of OCHA is to coordinate the emergency response system,
policy development, humanitarian information management etc. The OCHA’s activities
in disasters are not only the distribution of food medicine and other forms of relief but
also in ensuring the safe distribution of relief and the protection of those responsible
for its delivery. The OCHA department not only provides emergency assistance but also
campaign immediate humanitarian action with longer term efforts to tackle the causes
of a given crisis. While concentrating on the coordination of emergency response, OCHA
assist operational humanitarian agencies in developing common policies to improve
planning, preparedness and respond to natural disasters. It also promotes preparedness
and prevention efforts to reduce vulnerability of natural disaster.
The OCHA works closely with the relevant organizations and relies on their
operational capacity to deliver the necessary assistance. The OCHA therefore strives to
a) Organise technical assistance prior planning and the prevention of complex
emergencies
b) Prevent, control and forecast disasters
c) Help to assist damage and emergency relief requirements
d) Mobilize the international community to raise funds and encourage support
to the affected countries
e) Coordinate donations
f) Act as an intermediary between victim’s government and donors.
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Figure No.3.6
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Organize technical assistance
OCHA Prevent & forecast disaster
Assist damage and emergency relief requirements
Mobilize international community to raise funds
Coordinate donation
Act as an intermediary
Institution Arrangement with in OCHA
The OCHA has three tools to spread up the response of international community to
emergencies. They are
1. Inter Agencies Standing Committee – To formulate and coordinate policy.
2. The Central Emergency Revolving Fund – as a quick source of emergency
funding
3. Consolidating Inter Agency Appeal Process – which assist the needs of a
critical situations and prepare a comprehensive inter agency response
strategy.
Among this tools IASC play an important role in coordinating international
emergency assistance following a major disaster though the central emergency revolving
fund inter agencies standing committee and the consolidated appeal process. The Inter
Agency Standing Committee work as an active role in reducing the impacts of disasters.
Figure No.3.7
OCHA & its Tool
Inter Agency Standing Committee
OCHA & its Tool Central Emergency Revolving Fund
Inter Agency Appeal Process
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Inter Agency Standing Committee (here in after referred as IASC)
IASC31 is a unique inter agency forum for coordination policy development and
decision making. It is established in 1992 to strengthen humanitarian assistance by serving
primary mechanism for inter agency coordination relating to humanitarian assistance in
response to complex and major emergencies under the leadership of emergency relief
coordinator32. The primary objectives of IASC are
1. To develop and agree on system wide humanitarian policies
2. To advocate for common humanitarian principles to parties outside the
IASC.
3. Identify areas were gaps in mandates for lack of operational capacity exists.
4. To resolve dispute or disagreement between humanitarian agencies on
system wide humanitarian issues.
Figure No.3.8
Objectives of Inter Agency Standing Committee
To develop humanitarian policies
IASC To advocate humanitarian principles outside IASE
Identify areas with lack of operational capacity
Resolve disputes
Overall their ultimate objective is to improve the delivery of humanitarian assistance
to affected populations.
Structure and Composition of IASC
The IASC’s shared by the emergency relief coordinator. There are nine full
members and nine standing invitees in IASC. The full time members of IASC are theheads of their designated representatives of the UN operational agencies. Relevant nongovernment organization can be invited to participated on and adhoc basis.
The IASC may review its memberships every year and they met twice a year. It is
chaired by the emergency relief coordinator33.
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IASC Working Group
IASC working group is chaired by the OCHA office in Geneva. It meets in regular
intervals of three times a year34. They make strategic policy and major operational
decisions for IASC principal meeting. It establishes IASC subsidiary bodies on the request
of meeting. They monitor and implement the IASC guidelines and decisions. They submit
their annual report and prepare annual work plan for the endorsement by the IASC
principals35.
IASC and Subsidiary Bodies
IASC and subsidiary bodies assist in developing policy or operational guidelines
for humanitarian assistance. They serve as a link between emergency relief and longer
term recovery and development activities during the period of disasters. Inter Agency
Subsidiary Bodies can be categorized into four groups. They are
(i) Sub Working Group (SWG)36
(ii) Task Forces 37
(iii) Reference Groups38
(iv) Contact Groups and other Groups39
Financial Arrangements within OCHA
Central Emergency Revolving Fund (here in after referred as CERF)
The CERF is a humanitarian fund established by the UNs /OCHA to enable more
timely and reliable humanitarian assistance to those affected by natural and armed
conflicts40. It is established in 2005 and this fund allows the UNs to react immediately
when a disaster strikes by making funding available for life saving activities. CERF is a
tool created a the UNs to pre position funding for humanitarian action. It was established
to upgrade the current Central Emergency Revolving Fund and it is based on voluntary
contribution by governments and private sector organizations such as co-operations,
individuals and NGO’s.
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Consolidated Appeal Process (here in after referred as CAP)
The CAP is coordinated and monitored by OCHA41. It is a programme cycle for aid
organizations to plan, coordinate fund, implement and monitor their response to disasters
and emergency. They help the international community to identify the most critical needs
of affected people and to determine the most appropriate ways to provide assistance and
they develop a strategic approach to humanitarian action and foster close cooperation
between host governments donors, aid agencies and in particular between NGOs, the
Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement etc. A Common Humanitarian Action Plan
(CHAP)42 was produced by CAP while they work in crisis regions and it is the CHAP
who gives foundation for developing a Consolidated Appeal Process.
In order to support CAP, the IASC establish a sub working group on the CAP43 and
the specific team of OCHA works along with them. In sum the CAP aims to get people in
need the best available protection and assistance on time.
OCHA’s Response Mechanisms
The OCHA has two mechanisms to response to disasters. They are UN Disaster
Assessment and Coordination Stand by Team (UNDAC) and International Search and
Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG).
Figure No.3.9
Mechanism of OCHA
OCHA
UNDAC INSARAG
UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination Stand by Team (here in after referred asUNDAC)
An UNDAC team was established by OCHA in 1993. This team can be mobilized
very rapidly following a major disaster. It visits a site of a disaster in order to assist local
and national authorities of the affected country in identifying international assistance
needs and if necessary coordinating the activities of international relief team arriving at
the sight of the disaster44.
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OCHA can field a UNDAC team to assist and emergency assessment and field
coordination during the initial relief phase. This team is a stand by team of disaster
management professionals consist of qualified and specially trained national emergency
management experts and as well as of OCHA staff45.
Strengthening humanitarian response capacity give importance to fill up the gaps
in issues related to water and sanitation shelter camp management and protection etc.
Strengthening humanitarian coordinator system broadens humanitarian community
by including NGO’s, who are the major providers of humanitarian assistance with all
reforms efforts.
International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (here in after referred as INSARAG)
The INSARAG is an inter- governmental network under the UN’s umbrella. It was
inaugurated in 1991 deals with urban search and rescue and related disaster response.
Since the creation of INSARAG significant progress has been made in improving
standards for urban search and rescue assistance and the coordination of international
response to major sudden on set disasters. The aim of INSARAG is
1. Organize effective international relation in order to save lives and provide
humanitarian service during disasters.
2. To make emergency relief planning and response more effective.
3. To ensure more effective cooperation between international search and
rescue teams.
4. To encourage activities aims that enhancing the preparedness of search
and rescue operations in natural disaster prone countries.
5. To provide guidelines and technical support primarily through the OCHA.
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Figure No.3.10
INSARAG
Provide humanitarian services
Make emergency relief planning
INSARAG Cooperation between international search & rescue teams
Encourage activities for search & rescue
Provide guidelines & technical support
Onsite Operations Coordination Centre (here in after referred as OSOCC)
OSOCC assist the local authorities of the affected country with the management
of disasters and with the coordination of ISR team. The OSOCC can establish the first
international team arriving in the affected country in cooperation with national authorities,
or by resources mobilized by the INSARAG Secretariat in OCHA and the UNDAC team.
Figure No.3.11
OCHA
OCHA
Institution arrangement Financial arrangement Response mechanism
IASC CAP Revolving Fund UNDAC INSARAG
Working Group OSOCC
Sub working Group
Task Force
Reference Group
Contact Group
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Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change (here in after referred as IPCC)
IPCC is the scientific body established by UNEP and WMO to make assessment
of climate change with clear scientific view on the current state of climate change and
its potential environmental and socio economic consequences. But it does not conduct
any research nor does it monitor climate related data or parameters. The IPCC’s are
inter governmental body and its is open to all member countries of UN & WMO. They
met once a year the work of IPCC is supported by a secretariat whose role is to plan
coordinate and over all IPCC activities.
At present IPCC have two working groups.
1. Task force on National green house.46
2. Task group on data and scenario support for impacts and Climate analysis
(TGICA)47
World Meteorological Organization (here in after referred as WMO)
WMO48 is the UN’s specialized agency dealing with weather, climate and water. It
established in 1951 as a specialized agency of a United Nations for the succession of
International Meteorological Organization (IMO). It works together with the world and
coordinates the working of global meteorological and climatological services relating
to the environment. The aim of WMO is to co-ordinate and encourage international co-
operation with regard to meteo-hydro and geo physical matters. Its programmes relates
to immediate as well as long term matters to mitigate and to save lives and property of
weather related disasters.
The programme relating to natural and technological hazards include World
Weather Watch Programme (WWW)49. It operates on three levels i.e. global, regional
and national levels in Global Data Processing System (GDPS)50, Global Observing System
(GOS)51 and Global Telecommunication System (GTS)52, Public Weather Services
(PWS)53, World Climate Programmes (WCP)54, World Weather Research
Programme(WWRP)55 and Hydrology and Water Resources Programme (HWRP)56 are
more concerned with mitigation of and preparedness for natural disasters of
meteorological or hydrological origin. They give importance to global capacity in
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detection, forecasting and early warning of hazards, as well as in providing effective
means and procedures to minimize their adverse consequences through their activities.
WMO is a permanent member of ISDR’s Inter Agency Task Force. They together
foster the coordination for effective and timely warnings in tropical storms, severe
flooding and cooperate with national, regional and global organizations for implementing
programme to mitigate the adverse effects of natural disasters.
Department of Emergency and Humanitarian Action/World HealthOrganisation (here in after referred as DEHA/WHO)
WHO has established a department of Emergency and Humanitarian Action (DEHA)
in 1998 to coordinate the actions at global, regional and country levels concerning
emergency preparedness and disaster reduction, emergency response and humanitarian
actions and advocacy. EHA represents WHO in the disaster related fora and programmes
of the UN system such as IASC and its Task Forces. The network of EHA partners includes
the Red Cross /Red Crescent Movements various universities and other academic
institutions, NGO’s, senior public health experts all around the world, various inter
governmental initiatives and institutions such as the organizations of African Unity, the
Council of Europe, the international Organisatons of Mitigation and the International
Organisation of civil protection.
WHO’s coordination and cooperation with the UN’s and other specialized agencies
and with governmental and nongovernmental organizations is imperative for appropriate
and prompt support to countries, inorder to strengthen their emergency preparedness
and response. Through direct interaction as well as participation in various consultative
structures, WHO collaborates and consults with number of operational partners as well
as with other decision making and planning agencies.
WHO’s activities and programmes in the field of disaster prevention, protection
and preparedness includes in two areas (a) Emergency Health Intelligence57 (b)
Emergency health Capacity Building58.
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United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (here in after referred asFAO)
FAO conducted activities relate to disaster prevention, preparedness, early warning,
mitigation and needs assessment, relief and rehabilitation. It has established two wings
like Global Information and early Warning System (GIEWS) on Food and Agriculture
and Emergency Operation and Rehabilitation Division for Strengthen the capacity of
communities and local institutions in preparing for natural hazards and addressing food
emergencies or crisis situations
These two wings strengthen disaster preparedness and mitigation against the impact
of emergencies that affect food security and productive capacities of rural populations,
forecasting and providing early warning of adverse conditions in the food and agricultural
sectors and of impending food emergencies, strengthening programmes for agricultural
relief and rehabilitation, strengthening local capacities and coping mechanisms by guiding
the choice of agricultural practices, technologies and support services to reduce
vulnerability and enhance resilience.
Figure No.3.12
FAO
FAO
GIEWS EORD
Global Information and Early Warning System on Food and Agriculture (here in afterreferred as GIEWS)
It established in 1975 and assesses the impact of natural/ man made disasters with
World Food Programme59. A number of other international organizations particularly
those within the UN system and Non Governmental Organisations participate in GIEWS
mission.
Emergency Operation and Rehabilitation Division (here in after referred as EORD)
EORD responds to needs for emergency assistance in the agricultural livestock
and fisheries sectors in developing countries affected by natural or human induced
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calamities. FAO’s emergency assistance covers a wide number of activities related to
the urgent rehabilitation of agricultural, livestock and fisheries production in disaster
stricken areas. FAO also assists developing countries in the establishment of agricultural
preparedness and post emergency measures, formulating and implementing relief and
short rehabilitation programmes that will speed the return back to agricultural development
United Nations Environment Programme (here in after referred as UNEP)
The UNEP after the Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action called for improvement
of international response to environmental emergencies for governments and relevant
UN agencies, bodies and programmes to cooperate with the joint UNEP/OCHA affairs60.
It provides assistance to the countries, in particular developing countries facing
environmental emergencies.
UNEP can serve the International community with respect to environmental
emergencies by strengthening its capacities in the area of emergency, prevention,
preparedness, assessment, response and mitigation. The UNEP has reinforced its capacity
with the establishment of Disaster Management Branch61. This branch comprising of
three units.
(i) Emergency Coordination Unit (ECU)
(ii) Post Conflict Assessment Unit (PCAU)
(iii) Joint UNEP/OCHA Environmental Unit
Figure No.3.13
United Nation Environment Programme
Emergency Coordination Unit
UNEP Post Conflict Assessment Unit
Joint UNEP/OCHA Environmental Unit
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Emergency Coordination Unit (here in after referred as ECU)
ECU act as a focal point for other UN agencies, international organizations and
NGOs in disaster reduction, preparedness and mitigation programmes. Its main task is
to coordinate UNEP’s strategic framework on emergency prevention, preparedness,
assessment, mitigation and response.
Post Conflict Assessment Unit (here in after referred as PCAU)
It was created in 2001 following the experience gained by UNEP in its assessment
of the environmental impact of the Kosovo conflict62. The unit investigates the
environmental consequences due to conflict and disasters. PCAU’s core areas of
operation can be of conducting environmental assessment, mitigating environmental risk,
strengthening institutions for environmental governance, integrating environmental
considerations in reconstruction, strengthening international and regional environmental
cooperation.
This unit is responsible for responding to crisis situations and they have shifted its
focus from post crisis intervention to crisis prevention and they have expanded its
operational range from adding disaster risk reduction and environmental cooperation
for peace building to its core services of post crisis environmental assessment and
recovery.
Joint UNEP/OCHA Environmental Unit (herein after referred as joint unit)
The joint unit set up by the UN63 for assisting urgent environmental assistance in
1988 following the Bhopal Gas Disaster. The General Assembly in 1989 underlined the
need to strengthen international cooperation to tackle the environmental emergencies.
Realizing the emergency the developed and developing countries endorsed UNEP’s
activities64.A World Summit on Sustainable Development was launched by OCHA and
UNEP in 2002. This Summit focused for global partnership on environmental emergency
for prevention, preparedness and response to environmental emergencies
The Joint Unit mobilize and coordinate emergency assistance and response
resources to countries facing natural as well as man made disasters like oil spills,
industrial disasters, forests firs etc. the key function of this Unit are monitoring,
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notification, mobilization of assistance, information clearing house, assessment, financial
assistance etc
The role and function of Joint unit in emergency situation includes
(i) Continuous monitoring and ongoing communication with an international
network, news service and websites for early notification of environmental
occurrence
(ii) The Joint Unit alerts and give information to the international community
and issue situations report for worldwide contacts
(iii) The Joint Unit quickly brings the affected country in direct contact with
donor government around the world, who are ready and willing to assist
and provide needed response resources
(iv) The Joint Unit mobilize multilateral assistance from the international donor
community to the country affected by environmental emergencies or
natural disasters with significant environmental implications
(v) The Joint Unit can arrange for the urgent dispatch of international experts
to assess the impacts of an emergency and to make impartial and
independent recommendation.
(vi) In certain circumstances they also provide financial assistance to the
affected countries
Figure No.3.14
Role and Function of Joint Unit
Monitoring
Give alerts and information
Joint Unit Direct contact with disaster affected country
Mobilize multilateral assistance
Dispatch of international experts
Financial assistance
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In order to tackle chemical accidents UNEP suggested for the establishment of
Awareness and Preparedness for Emergency at Local Level (here in after referred as
APELL) in 1986.The main aim of APELL is to prevent loss of life and social well being,
minimize damage to property and ensuring the protection of environment at local level.
The two fundamental aspects of APELL includes supply information for handling
manufacturing and use of hazardous substances and the protective measures that have to
be taken at the local level. They also develop plans for the protection of public.
Figure No.3.15
United Nations System to Disaster Management
Principal Organs of the UN
General Assembly ECOSOC UN Secretariate
UNDP FAO OCHA
UNEP ILO
WFP UNESCO
Other entities WHO
UNITAR WMO
Despite strengthening the UN specialized organs; the UN has take initiatives for
adopting international conventions and conferences for reducing the risk of disasters.
They are
Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992
Environmental protection, sustainable development and disaster management are
interlinked and this could help to slow down the intensity and frequency of natural
disasters. Therefore international community has developed a United Nations Conference
on Environment and Sustainable Development in 1992(herein after referred as Rio
Declaration)This declaration reaffirms the Stockholm declaration to build upon the
sustainable development, with the goal of establishing new levels of cooperation among
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states and to protect the integrity of the global environmental and developmental system.
They give special priority to the developing countries to add their interest and needs in
this field65. The declaration reaffirms the duty of the State to exploit their own resources
without damaging to the environment or area of other states66 with the concentration of
development to fulfill the needs of future generation67. Moreover the state should reduce
and eliminate unsustainable pattern of production and consumption through the
cooperation among states in a spirit to conserve, protect and restore the health and
integrity of the ecosystem. Therefore the state shall develop national laws regarding
liability and compensation for the victims of pollution68. The Declaration specifies the
need of community participation to protect the environment69. The principles of
precautionary principles70, polluter pay principle71, Environment Impact Assessment72
are reaffirmed to protect the environment from degradation. The state gets international
backup to restore the environment if any disasters cause harmful or damages to the
environment73. The role of women, youth and indigenous people in environmental
management for attaining sustainable development are also mentioned in this principle.
The inter relation between development, environment and peace is also mentioned in
this principle indirectly reducing the frequency of natural disasters74.
Table No.3.1
Earth Summit
Sl.No. Important Provisions of Earth Summit Principles
1 Priority to developing countries to enact their own laws 6
2 Curtail the exploitation of natural resources to preserve
for future generation 2 & 3
3 Protect, conserve and restore the ecosystem 4,5,7 &8
4 Encourage community participation 10
5 Affirm the principles of precautionary, polluter pay and
Environmental Impact Assessment 16&17
6 International back up to restore environment 18
7 Mainstreaming women, youth and indigenous participation 20,21 & 26
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Figure No. 3.16
Earth Summit
Priority to developing countries
Earth Summit Curtail the exploitation of natural resources
Protect, conserve and restore the ecosystem
Encourage community participation
Affirm the principles of precautionary, polluter pay and EIA
International back up to restore environment
Mainstreaming women, youth and indigenous participation
Tempera Convention on the Provision of Telecommunication Resources forDisaster Mitigation and Relief Operations, 1998
During the post disaster period, fast and efficient flow of information is essential75
and there is an urgent need to establish an effective and comprehensive communication
links at disaster sites between the site and the national systems for dealing with disaster
response. In most of the situations relief operations cannot be coordinated because of
badly damaged or destroyed situation or can be congested with overuse in times of panic
and emergency. Many of disasters activities are conducted in situations where
telecommunication systems are unreliable and are susceptible to damage can suffer
complete collapse and worsen the situation As a result conference on disaster
communication was held at Tempera in 1991 and this conference established the need to
improve international cooperation in communications and enhance national
communication capabilities in order to reduce loss of life, damage to property and
livelihood and damage to environment caused by disasters.
Inorder to overcome its limitations Convention on Disaster Communication was
conducted in 1998. This convention give importance to establish an effective framework
for the co-operation between and among the State parties, intergovernmental and regional
grouping and entities and non governmental bodies, including terrestrial and satellite
telecommunication76 to facilitate the use of telecommunication recourses for disaster
75
mitigation and relief operation. The convention speaks about the dissemination ofinformation to the public77 particularly to disaster affected communities for humanitarianrelief and assistance78.
Under this convention any state party can request to get telecommunicationassistance from any state party directly or through the operational coordinator for disastermitigation and relief programmes79. The communication assistance should specify thescope and type of assistance to the state party or the coordinator80. Then the State partyfor their assistance shall inform to the requesting state party about the scope, terms andconditions, restrictions and cost if any applicable to such assistance81 the requestingstate party can terminate the assistance of telecommunication by providing notificationto the operational coordinator and they facilitate the conclusion of thetelecommunication82. A non state entity or an intergovernmental organisation cannot berequested for telecommunication assistance under the convention83 but the state partycan make laws with regard to telecommunication for effective disaster management toreduce or remove the regularity barriers84.this convention is one of the most effectivestandards set by the comity of nation by understanding the importance of sharing ofinformation in preventing, mitigating and in the rescue operations in the event of a disaster.
In 1998 India is a signatory to the Convention.
Table No.3.2
Tempera Convention
Sl.No. Important provisions of Tempera Convention Articles
1 Give information concerning disasters 3(2)(a)
2 Disseminate disaster information to the public 3(2)(b)
3 Installation of flexible and reliable
telecommunication resources to humanitarian relief
and assistance 3(2)(d)
4 State party can request for telecommunication
assistance for relief and mitigation programme and
the state party should promptly determine whether they
give assistance to the requesting state 4(1)(2) and 4 (3)
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5 The non state entities or intergovernmental
organization cannot request for
telecommunication assistance under
this Convention 4(7)
6 The requesting state party can terminate
telecommunication assistance 6(1) and (3)
7 The state party can remove all the barriers to the
use of telecommunication resources 9(2) and (3)
Figure No.3.17
Tempera Convention
Give and disseminate information
Tempera Convention Installation of reliable telecommunication
State party can request for assistance
State party can terminate assistance
United Nations Frame Work Convention on Climate Change, 1992
The change in the earth’s climate and its adverse effects on human beings are a
common concern of humankind. The human activities have been substantially increasing
the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, that these increases enhance the
natural greenhouse effect, and that this will result on average in an additional warming of
the earth’s surface and atmosphere and may adversely affect natural ecosystems and
humankind in the form of natural disasters. The largest share of historical and current
global emissions of greenhouse gases has originated in developed countries. The
Convention focused to control the emission of green house gases from industrial
countries and take integrated plans for coastal zone management, water resources and
agriculture, and for the protection and rehabilitation of areas, particularly in affected by
drought and desertification, as well as floods.
The Convention for better implementation includes actions related to funding,
insurance and the transfer of technology, to meet the specific needs and concerns of
77
developing country Parties arising from the adverse effects of climate change and/or
the impact of the implementation of response measures, especially on:(a) Small island
countries; (b) Countries with low-lying coastal areas; (c) Countries with arid and semi-
arid areas, forested areas and areas liable to forest decay; (d) Countries with areas prone
to natural disasters;(e) Countries with areas liable to drought and desertification; (f)
Countries with areas of high urban atmospheric pollution; (g) Countries with areas with
fragile ecosystems, including mountainous ecosystems; (h) Countries whose economies
are highly dependent on income generated from the production, processing and export,
and/or on consumption of fossil fuels and associated energy-intensive products; and (i)
Landlocked and transit countries85.
For giving awareness about the adverse effects of green house effects on the planet
the Convention promote and facilitate at the national, subregional and regional levels,
and in accordance with national laws and regulations, and within their respective capacities.
The Convention specify that emission of green house gas can be reduced by (a) the
development and implementation of educational and public awareness programmes on
climate change and its effects; (b) public access to information on climate change and
its effects; (c) public participation in addressing climate change and its effects and
developing adequate responses; and (d) training of scientific, technical and managerial
personnel; (e) Cooperate in and promote, at the international level, and, where appropriate,
using existing bodies: (f) the development and exchange of educational and public
awareness material on climate change and its effects; and (g) the development and
implementation of education and training programmes, including the strengthening of
national institutions and the exchange of personnel to train experts in this field, in particular
for developing countries86.
The Kyoto Protocol87 is an international agreement linked to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change88. For reducing the green house gas emission
and to the Planet from causing disasters the Kyoto Protocol adopts three mechanisms.
They are (i) Emission Trading known as carbon trading (ii) Clean development Mechanism
and (iii) Joint Implementation.
78
(i) Emission Trading
Kyoto Protocol has accepted targets for limiting or reducing emissions. These
targets are expressed as levels of allowed emissions, or assigned amounts, over the
2008-2012 commitment period. The allowed emissions are divided into assigned amount
units (AAUs)89. An emission trading allows countries that have emission units to spare
emissions permitted them but not used to sell this excess capacity to countries that are
over their targets. Thus, a new commodity was created in the form of emission reductions
or removals. Since carbon dioxide is the principal greenhouse gas. Carbon is now tracked
and traded like any other commodity. This is known as the carbon market90.
(ii) Clean Development Mechanism
The purpose to the Clean Development Mechanism (here in after referred as CDM)
is to assist parties in achieving sustainable development and to limit carbon emission.
The CDM91, allows a country with an emission-reduction or emission-limitation
commitment under the Kyoto Protocol to implement an emission-reduction project in
developing countries. Such projects can earn saleable certified emission reduction (CER)
credits, each equivalent to one tonne of CO2, which can be counted towards meeting
Kyoto targets. It is the first global, environmental investment and credit scheme of its
kind, providing standardized emissions offset instrument. A CDM project activity might
involve, for example, a rural electrification project using solar panels or the installation
of more energy-efficient boilers. The mechanism92 stimulates sustainable development
and emission reductions, while giving industrialized countries some flexibility in how
they meet their emission reduction or limitation targets.
( iii) Joint Implementation
The joint implementation93 allows a country with an emission reduction or limitation
commitment under the Kyoto Protocol to earn emission reduction units (ERUs) from
an emission-reduction or emission removal project in countries each equivalent to one
tonne of CO2, which can be counted towards meeting its Kyoto target94.Joint
implementation offers Parties a flexible and cost-efficient means of fulfilling a part of
their Kyoto commitments, while the host Party benefits from foreign investment and
technology transfer.
79
Figure No.3.18
Kyoto Protocol
Emission Trading
Kyoto Protocol Clean Development Mechanism
Joint Implementation
The time allotted for action to the Kyoto Protocol comes to an end by 2012.there
after The Bali Climate Change Conference was adopted by the international organization
as a right track to reach global climate deal95.
The Bali Road Map includes the Bali Action Plan, which launched a new,
comprehensive process to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the
Convention through long-term cooperative action, now, up to and beyond 2012.
Governments divided the plan into five main categories: shared vision, mitigation,
adaptation, technology and financing. Other elements in the Bali Action Plan includes
economic and social development and poverty eradication, deep reduction in global
emission, enhance national and international action on mitigation of climate change,
mitigation of climate change, enhance action on adaptation and this consider international
cooperation, risk management and risk reduction strategies, disaster reduction strategies
to address loss and damage associated with climate change impacts, and economic
diversification to build resilience
Figure No.3.19
Bali Action Plan
Economic and social development
Enhance mitigation on climate change
Bali Action Plan Enhance international cooperation
Disaster management and risk reduction strategies
Economic diversification to build resilience
80
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, 199696 (here in afterreferred as CCD)
Desertification does not mean that deserts are steadily advancing or taking over
neighbouring land97. Drought often triggers desertification98, Life on earth depends on
the layer of soil that is the source of nutrients for plants, crops, forests, animals and
people. Without it, ultimately none can survive. Although topsoil takes a long time to
build up, if mistreated it can vanish in just a few seasons due to erosion by wind and
water. Here comes the importance of this conference for combating drought. The ground
water level are depleting due to human intervention on the environment and this leads to
degradation of environment. Inorder to protect the environment from drought and
desertification the UN on 1996 adopted an International Convention to Combat
Desertification.
The Convention establishes a framework for national, sub regional and regional
programmes99 to counter the degradation of drylands, including semi-arid grasslands
and deserts. It calls on developed countries to actively support the efforts of affected
developing country parties to the Convention; Provide “substantial financial resources”
to assist affected developing country parties; promote the mobilization of adequate,
timely and predictable financial resources from all official and private sources; and
promote and facilitate access to appropriate technology, knowledge and know-how.
Figure No.3.20
Framework for National, Sub regional and Regional Programmes
Support the efforts of developing countries
Framework for Action Provide financial resources
Mobilize financial resources from private sources
Promote access to technology
The Convention gives prioritsation for the desertification-affected countries.
Therefore they are obliged to100give priority to combating desertification and drought
by allocating adequate resources in accordance with capabilities; establish strategies to
combat desertification and drought; address the underlying causes of the problem and
81
pay special attention to relevant socio-economic factors; promote awareness and the
participation of local population in action to combat desertification and drought; and
provide an enabling environment through appropriate laws, policies and action
programmes.
The Convention also aims to improve the efficiency of desertification aid to
developing countries by coordinating donors’ efforts and encouraging affected countries
to set up national action plans to combat desertification with grass-roots participation,
particularly with people who live off the land.
A local level approach and community participation is stressed by the Convention.
A significant component of this approach is the protection, promotion and use of relevant
traditional and local technology, knowledge, know-how and practices. It has become
evident that desertification cannot be effectively addressed unless the people most
affected are fully involved and committed.
Figure No.3.21
Framework for Desertification Affected Countries
Affected Countries Give priority to combat desertification and drough
Establish strategies
Pay attention to socio-economic factors
Promote awareness
Participation of local people
Provide an enabling environment
Under the Convention, National Action Programmes101 are required to identify the
causes of desertification and to take practical measures necessary to combat it and
mitigate the effects of drought. These programmes concentrated to specify the roles of
government, local communities and land users and identify available resources;
incorporate long-term strategies; suggest preventive measures; allow for modifications
in the face of changing circumstances; enhance national climatological, meteorological
and hydrological capacities; promote policies and strengthen institutional frameworks
for cooperation and coordination and facilitate access by local people to appropriate
82
information and technology; provide for effective participation at local, national and
regional levels; and require regular review and progress reports on implementation.
To mitigate the effects of drought, National Action Programmes102 may also include
establishment or strengthening of early warning systems and mechanisms for assisting
environmentally displaced persons; strengthening of drought preparedness and
management, including contingency plans;establishment and strengthening of food
security systems; and development of sustainable irrigation programmes for both crops
and livestock.
The Convention also provides guidelines for implementation and coordination of
action programmes103; information collection, analysis and exchange; research and
development104; technology transfer and development105; capacity-building106, education
and public awareness; mobilizing financial resources107 and establishing financial
mechanisms108.
Figure No.3.22
National Action Programmes
National Action Programmes Specify the role of Government
and local community
Incorporate long term strategies
Suggest preventive measures
Allow modification with changes
Enhance national capacities
Strengthen institutions
Require regular review
Establish early warning system
Strengthening drought preparedness
Develop sustainable irrigation programme
Strengthen food security
83
Frame work Convention on Civil Defence Assistance, 2000
With the increase both in the number and the seriousness of disasters of all kinds
the States parties take necessary measures in the face of potential disasters or other
emergency situations. The parties to the Convention commit to promote co-operations
between nations to reduce obstacles to assistance and particularly dalays in intervention.109
The States parties undertake the following principles in terms of providing assistance
when a State is threatened or a afftected by a disaster:
(a) Assistance shall be provided without discrimination, particularly with regard
to race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or any other opinion, to
national or social origin, to wealth, bith, or any other criterion.110
(b) Assistance shall be undertaken in a spirit of humanity, solidarity and
impartiality.111
(c) Offers of, or requests for, assistance shall be examined and responded to
by recipient States within the shortest possible time.112
The affected State shall provide all necessary information relating to the situation,
so as to ensure smooth implementation of the assistance, and shall provide timely notice
of actions required113 and the affected state should minimize the administrative and
customs’ fomalities relating to the entry.114 The role of the Civil Unit come to an end
when the disaster situation in the affected country ends or the affected country request
to leave the place.115
Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action, 1994
The Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action is emanated from the World Conference
on Natural Disaster Reduction, 1994 (here in after referred as WCNDR).This conference
is also known as Yokohama Conference. Inorder to confront the human losses and
damages caused by natural disasters the participants of the conference act in a new spirit
of partnership to build a safer world, based on common interests and shared responsibility
through national, regional and international efforts. The WCNRD take concrete measures
to reduce the rising toll of natural disasters through sustainable development. A strategy
84
known as Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action for Safer World conceived at the
WCND116. The basis of this strategy is to give importance to the least developed countries,
developing and land locked countries117 and the people who are poor and socially
disadvantaged groups because they are least equipped to cope with disasters118. The strategy
gives importance to strengthen the culture of prevention, strengthen human resources,
material capability, and capacity of research and institution for disaster reduction. They
adopt the policy of self reliance and integrated policies for prevention and response to
natural disasters. They encourage and give importance to education and training for disaster
prevention, people’s participation in risk reduction, and community based approaches in
vulnerable reduction. The decade emphasized communication in forecasting and warning
and cooperation among national, regional and international level for disaster reduction
with involvement of private sectors, nongovernmental organizations and United Nations
system by giving assistance to reduce loss of life from natural and related technological
disasters. The strategy calls for a plan of action to save the lives of human and to protect
the property from disasters. The plan of action that have to be taken at the community,
national, sub regional, regional and international level for coping the disasters because
the activities, communication, information and cooperation between these countries
can reduce the vulnerability to natural disasters. The action for community and national
level includes political commitments for declaration, legislation, policy decision etc.
There is also a suggestion for establishing a national committees for reducing the impacts
of disaster and at the same time due importance should be given to local authorities and
NGO’s because they are the first respondents to disasters.119
Introduce and integrate disaster mitigation plan in development plans of a nation
by giving importance to Environmental Impact Assessment and cost effective
technologies, public awareness through education and training, giving early warning system
etc. The plan of action gives importance to mainstreaming women’s participation in
disaster risk reduction and application of traditional knowledge in this field.
(I) Strategy for the Year 2000 and Beyond
The World Conference has formulated a strategy for disaster reduction centre on
the objective of saving human lives and protecting property. The Strategy calls for an
85
accelerated implementation of a Plan of Action to be developed from the following
points (a) Development of a global culture of prevention (b) Adoption of a policy of
self-reliance in each vulnerable country, community comprising capacity-building and
efficient use of resources (c) Education and training in disaster prevention, preparedness
and mitigation (d) Development and strengthening of human resources and material
capabilities and capacity of research and development institutions for disaster reduction
and mitigation (e) Improvement of awareness in vulnerable communities, through media
in respect of disaster reduction (f) Involvement and active participation of the people in
disaster reduction, prevention and preparedness, leading to improved risk management;
(g) In the second half of the Decade, emphasis should be given to programmes that
promote community-based approaches to vulnerability reduction; (h) Improved risk
assessment, broader monitoring and communication of forecasts and warnings; (i)
Adoption of integrated policies for prevention of, preparedness for and response to,
natural disasters and other disaster situations including environmental and technological
hazards; (j) Improved coordination and cooperation among ongoing national, regional
and international disaster research activities, at universities, regional and sub regional
organizations and other technical and scientific institutions (k) Effective national
legislation and administrative action (l) Strengthening existing mechanisms and improved
use of communication on natural disaster reduction (m) Promotion and cooperation
between countries exposed to the same natural hazards through exchange of information,
joint disaster reduction activities and other formal or informal means including the
establishment or strengthening of regional and sub-regional centres (n) Making available
the existing technology for broader application to disaster reduction, (o)Integration of
the private sector in disaster reduction efforts and promote the involvement of non-
governmental organizations in natural hazard management (p) Strengthening the capacity
of the United Nations system to assist in the reduction of losses from natural and related
technological disasters.
86
Table No. 3.3
Strategy Principles
Sl No Principles Principle
Numbers
1 Development of a global culture of prevention C (a)
2 Adoption of a policy of self-reliance in each vulnerable
country, community comprising capacity-building and
efficient use of resources C (b)
3 Education and training in disaster prevention,
preparedness and mitigation C (c)
4 Development and strengthening of human resources and
material capabilities and capacity of research and
development institutions for disaster reduction
and mitigation C (d)
5 Improvement of awareness in vulnerable communities,
through media in respect of disaster reduction C (e)
6 Involvement and active participation of the people
in disaster reduction, prevention and preparedness,
leading to improved risk management; C (f)
7 Improved risk assessment, broader monitoring and
communication of forecasts and warnings C (i)
8 Adoption of integrated policies for prevention of,
preparedness for and response to, natural disasters and
other disaster situations including environmental and
technological hazards C (j)
9 Improved coordination and cooperation among on going
national, regional and international disaster research
activities, at universities, regional and sub regional
organizations and other technical and scientific institutions C (k)
87
10 Effective national legislation and administrative action C (l)
11 Strengthening existing mechanisms and improved use
of communication on natural disaster reduction C (m)
12 Promotion and cooperation between countries
exposed to the same natural hazards through
exchange of information, joint disaster reduction
activities and other formal or informal means
including the establishment or strengthening
of regional and sub-regional centres C (n)
13 Making available the existing technology for
broader application to disaster reduction, C (o)
14 Integration of the private sector in disaster
reduction efforts and promote the
involvement of non-governmental organizations
in natural hazard management C (p)
15 Strengthening the capacity of the United Nations
system to assist in the reduction of losses from natural
and related technological disasters. C(q)
Figure No.3.23
Strategy Principles
Develop culture of prevention
Adopt policy of self reliance in each country
Give education and training
Strengthening human resoures
Principles Improvement of awareness
Encourage people participation
88
Improve risk assessment
Monitor and communicate early forecast and warning
Cooperation among nations
Effective national legislations
Strengthening existing mechanisms
Integrate private sectors
Strengthening UNs system
(II) Plan of Action
The Conference adopts a Plan of Action to implement at the community and national
levels, the subregional and regional levels, and the international level, through bilateral
arrangements and international cooperation.
Plan of Action at National Level
This includes legislation and policy decision, development of risk assessment,
establish and strengthen national committees, consider local authorities and NGOs,
incorporate disaster mitigation in development plans, public awareness through education
and information and community involvement and women’s participation Plan of action.
Figure No.3.24
Plan of Action at National Level
Legislation and policy decision
Develop risk assessment
Plan of action Establish and strengthen national committeesat national level
Consider local authorities and NGO’s
Incorporate disaster mitigation in development plans
Public awareness through education and information
Community involvement and women’s participation
89
Action at Regional and Sub Regional Levels
The regional and subregional cooperation can be strengthen by establishing
subregional or regional centres for collecting documentation and information, education
and training etc. In order to strengthen the regional and national capacities to reduce
natural disasters technological, material and financial resources should be made available
in support of concerned subregional or regional centres. Improve communication,
strengthen early warning system, commemorating IDNDR, mutual assistance within and
between regions, restrength the political forum, coordinate regional plans with national
programme, assist the developing countries to integrate disaster prevention in their
development plans to achieve sustainable development.
Figure No.3.25
Plan of Action at Regional/Subregional
Collect documents &information
Give education and training
Plan of Action at Region level Provide technical, material &financial resources
Improve information &early warning
Mutual assistance between regions
Implement and coordinate regional plans
Action at the international level, in particular through bilateral arrangementsand multilateral cooperation.
This includes the donor countries should increase disaster prevention in their
budgets, integrate disaster mitigation in development projects, ensure cooperation in
the area of research and science and technology give finance to establish and strengthen
early warning exchange, information on disaster reduction policies and technologies,
Enhancing the activities of the United Nations.
90
Figure No.3.26
Action at the International Level
Increase disaster prevention
Integrate disaster mitigation in development projects
Ensure cooperation in areas of research
Strengthening early warning system
Action at international level Give financial support
Formulate disaster reduction policy
Enhancing activities of UN
The Geneva Mandate on Disaster Reduction, 1999
General Assembly of the United Nations designated the 1990’s as the International
Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR)120. The basic idea behind this
proclamation of the Decade is was and still remains to be the unacceptable and rising
levels of losses which disasters continue to enable all communities to become resilient
to the effects of natural, technological and environmental hazards, reducing the compound
risks they pose to social and economic vulnerabilities within modern societies.
As its name implied, the IDNDR officially came to an end in 1999. However, during
its ten-year span of activities, it achieved such important successes - especially in terms
of forging vital links among the political, scientific and technological communities the
United Nations created a successor body to carry on its work. This new body of
coordinated action programmes, with a secretariat in Geneva, is ISDR. It is the Geneva
mandates.121
The mandate aimed proactive rather than reactive approach to disasters at
international regional, subregional, national and local level. The objectives of this mandate
are to establish hazard, resilient communities and the protection of people from the
threat of disasters. They shall also contribute to safeguard the natural and economic
resources, and social wellbeing and livelihoods. Furthermore the Mandate focused on
91
scientific, social and economic research and technological and planning applications
for effective reduction of vulnerability. In this connection their needs information
exchange, improved early warning capacities, technology transfer and technical
cooperation among all countries.
It adopts co-operation and interaction among all disciples and institution for broad
risk management and its contribution to disaster reduction. Moreover the Mandate gives
importance to develop and strengthen institutional arrangements to co-ordinate disaster
reduction. The Mandate stresses the need of appropriate financial resources to ensure
development and implementation of prevention and mitigation policies and programmes
in all countries particularly developing countries. This Mandate recommend for
strengthening the co-operation of international community and UNs in this field.
Figure No.3.27
The Geneva Mandate on Disaster Reduction
Safeguard natural and economic resourses
Improved early warning capacities
Technology transfer
Geneva Mandate Cooperation among institutions
Strengthen institutional arrangements
Policies on prevention and mitigation
Strengthening international cooperation
Hyogo Frame Work of Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nationsand Communities to Disasters, 2005
The World Conference on Disaster Reduction was held in 2005122 and this
Conference adopted present frame work of action called Hyogo Frame Work of Action
2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters. The
conference provided a unique opportunity to promote a strategic and systematic approach
92
to reducing vulnerability and risk to hazard. It underscored the need for, and identifying
ways of building the resilience of nations and communities to disasters. The Conference
reviews the Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action for a Safer World123 and formulated
frame work of action for global disaster resilient.
Priorities of Action
Drawing on the conclusions of the review of the Yokohama Strategy, and on the
basis of deliberations at the World Conference on Disaster Reduction .The Conference
has adopted the following five priorities for action. They are(1). Ensure that disaster
risk reduction is a national and a local priority with a strong institutional basis for
implementation,(2). Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early
warning,.(3). Use knowledge, innovation and education to build a culture of safety and
resilience at all levels,(4). Reduce the underlying risk factors,(5). Strengthen disaster
preparedness for effective response at all levels
(1) Ensure that Disaster Risk Reduction is a National and a Local Priority with a StrongInstitutional Basis for Implementation
It ensures every country to develop policy, legislative and institutional frameworks
for disaster risk reduction and integrate risk reduction, as appropriate, into development
policies of a nation. The local authorities should give importance for local risk patterns
and trends, decentralize responsibilities and resources for disaster risk reduction. To
meet future requirements existing human resource capacities for disaster risk reduction
should be strengthened at all levels and promote community participation in disaster
risk reduction through the adoption of specific policies, the promotion of networking,
the strategic management of volunteer resources, the attribution of roles and
responsibilities, and the delegation and provision of the necessary authority and
resources. Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning.
(2) Identify, Assess and Monitor Disaster Risks and Enhance Early Warning.
For reducing disaster risk and for promoting a culture of disaster resilience lies in
the knowledge of the hazards and vulnerabilities to disasters. This can be achieved through
national and local level risk assessments, update and dissemination of risk maps, give
93
early warning system, establish institutional, infrastructure and scientific, technological,
technical capacities, etc
(3) Use Knowledge, Innovation and Education to Build a Culture of Safety and Resilienceat all Levels
Disasters can be substantially reduced if people are well informed and motivated
towards a culture of disaster prevention and resilience, which in turn requires the
collection, compilation and dissemination of relevant knowledge and information on
hazards, vulnerabilities and capacities. For this Provide easily understandable information
on disaster risks, Strengthen networks among disaster experts, include disaster risk
reduction knowledge in school curricula, strengthen the technical and scientific capacity
to mitigate disaster, Promote the engagement of the media in order to stimulate a culture
of disaster resilience and strong community involvement
(4) Reduce the Underlying Risk Factors
Disaster risks related to changing social, economic, environmental conditions and
land use, and the impact of hazards associated with geological events, weather, water,
climate variability and climate change therefore encourage the sustainable use and
management, Implement integrated environmental and natural resource management
approaches that incorporate disaster risk reduction, Promote food security in areas prone
to disasters, integrate disaster risk reduction planning into the health sector, promote
the establishment of public–private partnerships, incorporate disaster risk assessments
into the urban planning, rural development planning and in major infrastructure projects,
revision of existing or the development of new building codes etc
(5) Strengthen Disaster Preparedness for Effective Response at all Levels
At times of disaster, impacts and losses can be substantially reduced if authorities,
individuals and communities in hazard-prone areas are well prepared and ready to act and
are equipped with the knowledge and capacities for effective disaster management. This
can be achieved by Strengthen policy, technical and institutional capacities in regional,
national and local disaster management, exchange of information and coordination of
early warning in a holistic approach towards disaster risk reduction. Prepare or review
94
and periodically update disaster preparedness and contingency plans and policies at all
levels, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable areas and groups. Promote regular
disaster preparedness exercises, including evacuation drills, with a view to ensuring rapid
and effective disaster response system , promote the establishment of emergency funds,
where and as appropriate, to support response, recovery and preparedness measures.
Figure No.3.28
Hyogo Framework of Action
Establish strong institutions
Exchange early warning
Framework of Action Education and innovation
Reduce risk factors
Strengthen disaster preparedness
United Nation’s Millennium Declaration, 2000
Disaster and development are interlinked. Disaster Risk Reduction is an instrument
for achieving the Millennium Development Goals124. Disaster proofing development is
one of the most cost-effective investments in poverty reduction that a country can make.
Time and again, the poor fall victim to, or schools, hospitals, homes and whole livelihoods
destroyed by floods, earthquakes or other natural hazards. Yet this reversal and destruction
of development gains is mostly avoidable by wise investments in disaster risk reduction.
This can largely protect both the population and the national coffers from such losses
through the fulfillment of Millennium Development Goals125. The Millennium Goals
has eight goals to achieve and can be achieved through proper disaster risk reduction
programmes.126
Through poverty eradication127 the disaster risk can be reduced because the poor
suffer most from by the impact of disasters and are most likely to lose their lives and
livelihoods when disaster occur. Disaster and poverty form a vicious circle. Disasters
often make the denial of education worse,128 especially in the poorest populations affected
by disasters. It also disrupts education through the mass displacement of families and
95
communities, where schools and basic educational facilities are not available at all. In
some cases, the available schools are even used as temporary shelters during disaster
period (thus the schools are closed for schooling.) Disasters pose a tremendous threat
to the achievement of universal primary education in most disaster-prone countries. To
achieve the development goal make the school safe from disaster, teach disaster risk
reduction in school curriculums, increase disaster resilience of the poorest and most
vulnerable children etc Disasters affect men and women differently.129
Disasters knock backwards progress that women may have made toward greater
equality with men, as they are on average more affected. Unequal access to assets,
education, knowledge and power deprives women of the resources and capability to
protect themselves, their children and their assets from disasters. National planning for
disaster relief and recovery often excludes consideration of gender-based vulnerability
and risks, even though women in developing countries bear the greatest responsibility
for managing household resources. Poverty and disasters have a negative impact on
education for girls, more than for boys. Therefore gender equality require disaster risk
reduction through the millennium development goal.
Diseases that cause the bulk of child mortality are heavily attributable to
malnutrition,130 lack of clean water and sanitation, and insufficient medical interventions,
while a key requirement for improving maternal health and reducing maternal mortality
is access to professional healthcare. The battle against HIV/AIDS, malaria and other
major diseases also depends on access to clean water, sanitation, strong public health
systems and access to reproductive health education. Expansion of substandard water
and sanitation infrastructure may not enable communities and countries to meet the
MDGs since they are not disaster resilient and will eventually be damaged or destroyed
in disasters. Health systems coping with disasters largely rely on this critical
infrastructure. A far greater number than those initially harmed by the hazard will suffer
the consequences of lack of clean water and sanitation. Therefore hospitals and health
facilities need to be hazard-resistant, and existing health facilities must be assessed and
retrofitted if necessary.
Disaster risk reduction is a major component of climate change adaptation. It is
also one of the best links to the human development agenda for promoting biodiversity
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and sustainable environmental resource management. Disasters like landslides caused
by deforestation remind us that our own safety depends dramatically on common sense
protection of the environment. Maintaining biodiversity, grasslands, forests, coastal
wetlands, reefs and dunes is an important element of protecting human settlements from
drought, desertification, landslides, floods, sea-level rise and storms — all of which are
predicted to intensify due to climate change. Therefore use disaster risk reduction and
climate change adaptation arguments to promote better environmental management.
Mainstream disaster risk reduction into urban development, particularly focusing on
land-use planning, construction and water and sanitation. Risk sensitive land use, urban
planning, safe construction and sound infrastructure will not only contribute to water
management, but also protect the lives, assets and livelihoods of people, Assess and, if
necessary, retrofit water and sewage infrastructure to make it resistant to earthquakes,
landslides and floods, in particular.
We cannot achieve the Millennium Development Goals without addressing disaster
vulnerability, risk and the impact of climate change. Disaster Risk Reduction should be
an integral and essential part of our strategies and programmes, aiming to avoid the
creation of additional risks of disasters and climate changes effects in the development
process
Figure No.3.29
Millennium Development Goal
Eradicate Extreme Poverty and Hunger
Achieve Universal Primary Education
Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women
MDG Reduce Child Mortality
Improve Maternal Health
Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other diseases
Ensure Environmental Sustainability
Develop a Global Partnership for Development
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Table No.3.4
Millennium Development Goal
Sl. No. MDG Expansion
1 MDG 1 Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
2 MDG 2 Achieve universal primary education
3 MDG 3 Promote gender equality and empower women
4 MDG 4,5 and 6 Reduce child mortality, improve maternal health and
combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases
5 MDG 7 Ensure environmental sustainability
6 MDG 8 Develop a global partnership for development
United Nation Convention on Wetland Conservation, 1971(Ramsar Convention)
After the devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami, 2004 the contracting parties of Ramsar
Convention met in Ramsar to combating natural disasters by the meeting titled The Role
of the Ramsar Convention in the prevention and mitigation of impacts associated
with natural phenomena, including those induced or exacerbated by human activities,
2005131. In this Convention the UNEP/OCHA mandated mobilizes international assistance
in case of emergencies and natural disasters with environmental impacts. This conference
recalls Hyogo Framework of Action and recognizes the importance of role of Ramsar
Convention in disaster avoidance in coastal Zone and the role of UN organizations, NGOs
and civil society in aftermath of disaster is also recognized.
Plan of Action in the Meeting
The contracting parties should restore wetland and associated ecosystem to reduce
the vulnerability of natural disasters and expand the regions of wetland to protect them
and to reduce the risk of fires, to provide water supply in times of drought, encourage
the river basin authorities to ensure that wetland ecosystems are manage and restore to
mitigate the impacts of natural phenomena such as flood, drought, climate change and
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desertification. The Convention asks the contracting parties to assess the impacts of
natural disasters and to report this information to the Ramsar Secretariat.
The Convention calls upon to work together to support the recovery of coastal
wetlands and associated livelihoods in countries affected by the Indian Ocean Tsunami,
2004 as well as the reduction of the vulnerabilities of coastal community through give
assistance with reduction of the impact of natural disasters by ensuring sustainable
management of ecosystem, establishment or maintenance of coastal greenbelts of
mangroves and other appropriate species, mitigation of impacts of future tsunami and
storm damage, strengthening of regional initiatives to share experience and expertise
and support collective efforts in natural disaster prevention, mitigation and rehabilitation
of coastal wetland ecosystems; and assistance with monitoring of long-term ecological
impacts of disasters.
Figure No.3.30
Plan of Action in Ramsar Convention
Plan of Action Assistance to reduce the impacts of natural disasters
Establish green belt of mangroves
Mitigation of impacts of tsunami
Strengthening regional initiatives
Monitoring the impacts of disasters
Mauritius Strategy for the Future Implementation of the Programme of Actionfor the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States, 2005
The 2004 tsunami and other natural disasters like cyclone, hurricane, flood etc
caused major destruction and marked permanent scars in small islands developing States.
Therefore these states continue to be of major concern and this vulnerability will grow
unless urgent steps are taken. As a result the International meeting to review the
implementation programme of action adopts the Mauritius declaration and Mauritius
strategy for the sustainable development of Small Island Developing States132. This
declaration reaffirms the commitment to the principles of Rio declaration, Agenda 21,
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World Summit on Sustainable Development highlights the need to develop and strengthen
effective disaster reduction, early warning system, emergency relief and rehabilitation
and reconstruction capacities. It also reaffirms that the small island developing states
continue to be a special care for sustainable development to cope with its future disasters.
The declaration give special attention to build resilience and sustainable development in
small islands developing states133 and pledge to give sub regional, regional and inter
regional cooperation134 and financial and technical cooperation to these nations135. They
reaffirm the role of women and children in protecting sustainable development activities
and this minimize the impact of natural disasters and environmental degradation136. Thus
this declaration gave call for enhanced commitments to reduce the vulnerability of small
island states. Certain areas of action to this declaration includes climate change and sea
level rise and natural and environmental disasters137.
International Conference on Early Warning (EWC-IIl,) 2006
Early warning is a major element of disaster risk reduction. It prevents loss of life
and reduces the economic and material impact of disasters.To be effective, early warning
systems need to actively involve the communities at risk,facilitate public education and
awareness of risks, effectively disseminate messages and warnings and ensure there is
constant state of preparedness.In 1998 the First International Conference on Early
Warning Systems for Natural Disaster Reduction was held in Potsdam and the United
Nations announced the second conference, which was held in Bonn, under the banner
“Integrating Early Warning into Relevant Policies”138.EWC-II served as a follow-up to
the International Conference on Early Warning Systems for Natural Disaster Reduction,
held in 1998 (EWC’98). Under the banner “From concept to action” the Third
International Conference on Early Warning was held in Bonn in March 2006.
The Third International Conference on Early Warning (EWC III) provided the
opportunity to present new and innovative early warning projects and to discuss natural
hazards and risks around the world and how their impacts can be minimised through the
implementation of people-centred early warning. The present document “Developing
Early Warning System: A Checklist” was developed as a conference outcome and to
support the implementation of the early warning components of the Hyogo Framework
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for Action. Early warning received very high attention after the 26 December 2004
tsunami, when it became clear that a tsunami warning system and associated public
education could have saved thousands of lives.
The Checklist, which is structured around the four key elements of effective early
warning Systems. They are Risk Knowledge, Monitoring and Warning Service,
Dissemination and Communication, Response Capability.
Risk Knowledge
Risks arise from the combination of hazards and vulnerabilities at a particular
location. Assessments of risk require systematic collection and analysis of data and
should consider the dynamic nature of hazards and vulnerabilities that arise from processes
such as urbanization, rural land-use change, environmental degradation and climate change.
Risk assessments and maps help to motivate people, prioritize early warning system
needs and guide preparations for disaster prevention and responses.
Monitoring and Warning Service
Warning services lie at the core of the system. There must be a sound scientific
basis for predicting and forecasting hazards and a reliable forecasting and warning system
that operates 24 hours a day. Continuous monitoring of hazard parameters and precursors
is essential to generate accurate warnings in a timely fashion. Warning services for
different hazards should be coordinated where possible to gain the benefit of shared
institutional, procedural and communication networks.
Dissemination and Communication
Warnings must reach those at risk. Clear messages containing simple, useful
information are critical to enable proper responses that will help safeguard lives and
livelihoods. Regional, national and community level communication systems must be
pre-identified and appropriate authoritative voices established. The use of multiple
communication channels is necessary to ensure as many people as possible are warned,
to avoid failure of any one channel, and to reinforce the warning message.
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Response Capability
It is essential that communities understand their risks; respect the warning service
and know how to react. Education and preparedness programmes play a key role. It is
also essential that disaster management plans are in place, well practiced and tested. The
community should be well informed on options for safe behavior, available escape routes,
and how best to avoid damage and loss to property.
Figure No.3.31
Key Elements of Bonn’s Conference
Risk Knowledge
EWCIII Monitoring and Warning Service
Dissemination and Communication
Response Capability
Developing and implementing an effective early warning system requires the
contribution and coordination of a diverse range of individuals and groups. Therefore
Communities139, Local governments140, National governments141, Inter National bodies142,
NGO’s143, Private Sector144, Science and academic community145 etc. therefore these
institutions have to well equiped to desseminate early morning when a disaster strike.
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD), 2012146
(here in after referred as Rio+20)
Rio+20147 is a joint endeavour of the entire UN System148. A dedicated Secretariat
is responsible for coordinating and facilitating inputs to the preparatory process from
all UN bodies. The Rio+20 Secretariat is housed in the UN Department of Economic
and Social Affairs149. Rio+20 have highlighted seven areas150 which need priority attention.
Among this priority Disaster Readiness is one among them.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Building
The Rio 20 conference review the IDNDR,1989; ISDR, 1999; World Convention
on Sustainable Development, 2002; WCDR, 2005; Global Platform on Disaster Risk
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Reduction, 2007151. Moreover the Rio+20 step further in disaster risk reduction and
resilience building. In particular, Rio+ 20 contribute in the following ways.
(i) Incorporate Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience into Sustainable DevelopmentGoals
There is general support for greater political attention to disaster risk reduction
within the context of sustainable development152. In particular, Japan calls for the
formulation of a “Post-Hyogo Framework” to provide guidance beyond 2015, which
should be “clearly integrated in the Post-Millennium Development Goals”153. There is
also considerable support for the elaboration of a set of Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) at Rio+20 or at least to set a process in motion to this end to secure a post-2015
global sustainable development agenda. In order to ensure that any development gains
are sustainable, it is important that disaster risk reduction and resilience building be
integrated at all levels through integrated sustainable development planning across all
sectors, including but not limited to public infrastructure investments, sustainable
agriculture, health, education and sustainable urbanization154.
(ii) Build an Enabling International Environment
Developed countries are often better equipped financially and institutionally to
adopt explicit measures to respond effectively and adapt to changes in exposure,
vulnerability, and climate extremes than developing countries. Rio+20 should strive to
maintain an enabling international environment, which encourages the transfer of
knowledge, technology and expertise to enhance capacity building for disaster risk
reduction; the sharing of best practices and lessons learned; and the flow of appropriate
support to and between developing countries for enhancing governance for disaster risk
reduction and awareness at all levels.
(iii) Encourage Better Knowledge on Disaster Risks and Improve Access to Information
Rio+20 could reinforce the importance of improved understanding and monitoring
of disaster risks. This will require capacity building in the knowledge community and
improved communication of information, including strengthening networks within and
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between scientific communities, experts on socioeconomic issues and practitioners
working on disaster related issues;mobilizing resources for capacity building to research,
observe, analyze, map and, where possible, forecast natural and related hazards,
vulnerabilities and disaster impacts; developing early warning systems, disaster risk
monitoring facilities and indicators, building on full and open exchange and dissemination
of data at international, regional, national and local levels;establishing national disaster
loss databases that provide a comprehensive accounting of disaster loss and damage as
well as probabilistic risk assessments; making sure relevant information is disseminated
in an effective way to policy-makers, the general public and communities at risk, and
integrated in their decision making processes; enhancing research, statistical analyses
and reporting on long-term changes and identifying emerging issues that might increase
vulnerabilities and risks or disaster responsiveness of authorities and communities.
(iv) Encourage Social Inclusion
Vulnerability to disasters has many drivers. Socioeconomic, demographic, and
health-related factors as well as governance institutions can have a major influence on
coping and adaptive capacity in local communities. Rio+20 should reinforce the message
that communities and local governments should be empowered to manage and reduce
disaster risk by having access to the necessary information, resources and authority to
implement actions for disaster risk reduction; disaster risk reduction should be included
as an intrinsic part of formal and informal education, including adult education and
community level awareness training; adaptive social protection and safety nets can
significantly reduce community vulnerability in disaster-prone areas, protect household’s
assets and ensure access to basic services in times of crises.
(v) Encourage Investment for Disaster Risk Reduction
Donors, governments, UN system, IFIs and private sector should consider disaster
risk reduction as an investment for safer future and sustainability, not as an additional
cost.
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Figure No.3. 32
Rio+20
Incorporate Risk Reduction into Sustainable Development
Rio+20 Build an Enabling International Environment
Improve Access to Information
Encourage Investment for Disaster Risk Reduction
Encourage Social Inclusion
An International Disaster and Risk Conference will held from 26-30th August 2012
in Davos, Switzerland naming Integrative Risk Management in a Changing World. The
Conference will address the integrative risk management approach within the context of
cross cutting themes, risk areas and instruments such as disaster preparedness and
response, environment and ecological risk, country risk management, health impacts
and medical response and to reaffirm the Rio+20 declaration155.These are the Conventions
and Conferences put forward by the UN to combat disaster and to reduce the risk of
disasters and to build a disaster free globe.
Conclusion
The UNs has a central and unique role to play in providing leadership and coordinating
the efforts of international community to support the disaster affected country. The UN
should ensure the prompt and smooth delivery of relief assistance to the affected sates
and they needs to adopted and strengthened to meet present and future challenges in an
effective and coherent manner. Reducing the impacts of disasters is work that cut across
numerous competencies of the UNs. So it has become relevant to the growing number
of departments, programmes and agencies. Moreover the recognition of disaster
reduction and mainstreaming them in developing programmes has turned disaster
reduction into a core function of the UNs family. For effective manner UN conducted
international conferences and conventions on disaster risk reduction to attract the
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developed, developing and least developed countries. The international community i.e.
UN asks its member countries to enact their own laws for better disaster management.
As a result countries like USA, South Africa, Indonesia, Philippines, Queensland, and
India etc enacted their own laws even after the twentieth centuary.
End Notes
1 The main aim of UN is to keep peace throughout the world and to work together to help
people living with their better lives, to eliminate poverty, diseases and illiteracy, stop
environmental degradation etc. each organ and agencies of UN strive to fulfill their aims in
a better manner. Their aim can be achieved through proper planning, preparedness and
response system to disasters because the disasters can cause devasting effects and it touches
peoples life and environment in equal manner. Inorder to achieving their aims each organ of
the UN and their agencies have their own mechanisms for disaster risk reduction.
2 General Assembly resolution 44/236. The objectives of this resolution is to raise awareness
how people are taking action to reduce their risk to disasters. In 2011, the observance
take place within the framework of the “step up for Disaster Risk Reduction” campaign,
and its theme is making Children and Young people partners for Disaster Risk Reduction”.
3 The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of
the United Nations. Comprising all 193 Members of the United Nations, it provides a
unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered
by the Charter. The Assembly meets in regular session intensively from September to
December each year, and thereafter as required. see Malcolm N.Shaw, International
Law1087(Cambridge University Press, 2003).
4 ECOSOC is a founding UN Charter body established in 1946, the Council is the place
where such issues are discussed and debated, and policy recommendations issued. As
such, ECOSOC has broad responsibility for some 70% of the human and financial
resources of the entire UN system, including 14 specialized agencies, 9 “functional”
commissions, and five regional commissions. The Council holds regular meetings throughout
the year with prominent academics, business sector representatives and 3,200+ registered
non-governmental organizations. Held in alternate years in New York and Geneva, the
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session is divided into 5 segments High-level; Coordination; Operational Activities;
Humanitarian Affairs; and General which cover both global issues and technical,
administrative questions. see Ibid 3 p.1091.
5 The UN Secretariat is an international staff working in duty stations around the world —
carries out the diverse day-to-day work of the Organization. It services the other principal
organs of the United Nations and administers the programmes and policies laid down by
them. At its head is the Secretary-General, who is appointed by the General Assembly on
the recommendation of the Security Council for a five-year, renewable term. The duties
carried out by the Secretariat are as varied as the problems dealt with by the United
Nations. These range from administering peacekeeping operations to mediating international
disputes, from surveying economic and social trends and problems to preparing studies on
human rights and sustainable development. Secretariat staffs also inform the world’s
communications media about the work of the United Nations; organize international
conferences on issues of worldwide concern; and interpret speeches and translate
documents into the Organization’s official languages. see Malcolm D.Evans, Blackston’s
International Law Document 172 (5th ed.,2001).
6 The commission on sustainable development and commission on the status of women are
relevant among the other commission constituted by the Council. These two commissions
are particularly relevant for disaster reduction.
7 General Assembly Resolution 54/219 established two mechanisms for the implementation
of ISDR in January 2000 and they were confirmed in the resolution 56/195 in December
2001.
8 Current members of UN IATF/DR include African Union, Asian Disaster Preparedness
Centre, Asian Disaster Reduction Centre and Council of Europe. The General Assembly
through Resolution 54/219 and 56/195 established an IAS and IATF for the implementation
of ISDR. The Task Force is shared by the under secretary general of humanitarian affairs,
organizations and programs of the United Nations system., and representatives from regional
entities and 8 representatives of civil society and relevant professional sectors. The Director
of ISDR secretariat is the secretary of the Task Forces. They meet twice a year. The Task
Force is also associated with additional technical and expert bodies called working group
of Task Force. They meet in Geneva tentatively in April and October.
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9 General Assembly resolution 54/219. It is the successor to the Secretariat of the International
Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction with the purpose of ensuring the implementation of
the ISDR.
10 Give awareness about risk, vulnerability, risk reduction and management of the impacts of
natural hazards to all regional, governments, nongovernmental organizations, UN entities,
representatives of civil society and common people.
11 The communities vulnerable to natural disasters are benefited from applied disaster reduction
policies and actions. Therefore the decision makers at all levels commit themselves to
disaster reduction policies and action.
12 Sharing of information on their research and practices can ensure a world that is more
resilient to the impact of natural hazards.
13 Get prepared to reduce disaster risk though scientific knowledge.
14 Natural Disaster Reduction, http://portal.unesco.org/science/en/ev.php
15 Natural science sector has the primary role in disaster risk reduction. They give importance
for promoting research and capacity buildings for sound management of natural resources
and for disaster preparedness and mitigation.
16 Cultural sector protect the cultural monuments against the effects of earthquake and other
natural hazards and conflicts. They also restore the monuments damaged by these
phenomena.
17 Educational sector includes design school buildings capable of disaster resistance and
conduct education in situation of crisis and emergency.
18 The world education forum held in the Dhaka in April 2000 also known as Dhaka Frame
Work of Action recognize the barriers for attaining education for all within the countries
affected by conflict for natural disaster the member countries pledge to (1) Mobilise strong
national and international political commitment for education for all, development national
action plan and enhance significantly investment and basic education…, meet the needs of
education systems affected by conflict, natural calamities and instability and conduct
educational programs in base that promote mutual understanding, peace and tolerance
and that help to prevent violence and conflict. See para 8 of the Action Plan.
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19 The geological hazards like earthquake, volcanic eruption, Tsunami etc. the UNESCO
establishes many national, regional and international institutions for searching and detecting
the geological hazards and conduct research on this topic.
20 The IHP is UNESCO’s internationals scientific cooperative program in water research,
water resources management, education and capacity building. This program give
considerable attention to hydrological hazards like fled, Tsunami etc. They study the
management and prevention aspects of fled land slide etc.
21 They make studies in drought and desertification. It is undertaken in the frame work of IHP
and the MAB program in 1971. The arid land studies including drought and desertification
problems are given and important place in MAB activities, with significance input to the
convention to compact desertification.
22 The 52nd General Assembly gave UNDP a clear mandate act as the focal point for
strengthening national capacities related to disaster mitigation prevention etc.
23 In India UNDP supports communities in over 150 disaster prone districts to develop and
implement disaster risk management plans. In Malawi UNDP is assisting the governments
to elaborate a national disaster risk reduction strategy and integrate disaster reduction into
to government policies and programs to improve management of climate related risk. In
the wake of 2004 Tsunami UNDP worked with worsly affected countries like Bangladesh,
Maldives, Sri Lanka and other affected countries to develop systems to assist risk and
improve early morning systems in hopes of reducing future disaster losses. see www.udp.org
accessed on 14th Feb 2010 at 1pm.
24 BCPR was created in 2001 .Its board work around the world is to restore the quality of
life of the victims of disasters. Its goal is to become a global centre of excellence on crisis
prevention and recovery by attracting the best professionals, providing knowledge and
quality services, responding quickly and appropriately to country demands, and building
effective partnership.
25 The BCPR was formally known as emergency response division. It is the house mechanism
setup to provide a quicker and more effective response in countries in special development
situations through the provisions of services. Its vision is to enhance UNDP’s efforts for
sustainable development, working with partners to reduce the incidents and impact of
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disasters and violent conflict, and to establish the solid foundations for peace and recovery
from crisis. They are by advancing the United Nations Millennium Development Goals on
poverty reduction.
26 No society can thrive when communities are shattered by conflict or disasters because
thousands of peoples have lost they are lives, property etc. and the population is denied to
equal access to justice. Inorder to create a healthy society BCPR try to reduce the exposure
and vulnerability of communities to disasters through UNDP.
27 Creative opportunities for employment to the victims of disasters and thus they can improve
their lively hoods. The BCPR focus for creating opportunities for employment for the
development of victims in countries at high risk of climate hazards.
28 The women and girl children are the victims for rape in most disaster situations and the
children forcibility recruited as combatants in conflicts they are for BCPR tried to protect
the communities by ensuring the rule of law and access to justice as a reality.
29 BCPR empower women and girls by mainstreaming in decision making of disaster
management and children are given education and the head of the family are given training
and financial support for starting small business.
30 General Assembly Resolution 46/182, 1991 design to strengthen the United UN response
to both complex emergencies and natural disasters by improving the humanitarian operations
in this field. The Resolution also establishes the department of humanitarian affairs. Later
the DHA was recognized into the office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs in
1998. The status of Relief Coordinator is upgraded to the Under Secretary General of
Humanitarian Affair. He is responsible for oversight of all emergency requiring humanitarian
assistance and acts as the central focal point of governmental, inter governmental and
nongovernmental relief activities. If a country is affected by any emergency the under
secretary appoint a Humanitarian Coordinator and he works with government, inter
government and nongovernment of affected country. see www.un.org/ochahome/aboutus/
historyofocha accessed on 4th July 2010 at 12pm.
31 The IASC should be composed of nine full members and that is operational organizations
and with standing invitees. Relevant non government organizations can be invited to
participate on an adhoc basic. In practice no distinction is made between members in
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standing invitees. The IASC should meet twice a year. Mr. John Holmes is the Chairman
of IASC.
32 See General Assembly Resolution 46/182 and 48/57.
33 The meeting is conducted probably in April and December.
34 Mr. Kasidas Rochanakorn is the Chairman of IASC Working Group.
35 The meeting of IASC Working Group is usually conducted in March, June and July,
November altering between Rome, Geneva and New York for two and a half days, hosted
by IASC agencies on a rotation basis.
36 SWG is established for an unlimited duration term policy issue in humanitarian response
like (a) SWG on the Consolidated Appeals Process (b) SWG on the Emergency
Telecommunication (c) SWG on the Gender and Humanitarian Action (d) SWG on the
Preparedness and Contingency Planning.
37 Task force are subsidiary bodies with a limited time frame and its object is to complete
specific task within a time, this includes facilitating inter agency coordination, providing
guidance for large scale emergencies and drafting guidelines focusing on a particular issues
like Task Force on Mental Health and Psychological support in emergency settings. Upon
the request of IASC, the IASC-WG will establish a Task Force to assist developing
policy or guidelines for relief interventions or with rehabilitation and developmental etc.
The term of reference of Task Force will be determined by IASC-WG.
38 They are established with a specific task of unlimited duration. They have an advisory role
to the working group and they may continue the work accomplished by the former Task
Force.
39 This contact group is of unlimited duration. They establish a good link between the IASC
and the donor community in case of humanitarian donorship.
40 This fund is directly linked to the effects of the disasters. It is mainly used for relief namely
food, food security, health, nutrition for priority country. For more details see www.un.org/
issues/food/taskforia/FACT_SHEET.pdf accessed on 31st Dec 2009 at 10 am.
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41 CAP presents a snapshot of situations, response plans, resources requirements and
monitoring arrangements. The appeal can be revised at any time according to the situation
or people’s need. when a crisis breakout the consolidated appeal should reflects the people’s
most urgent need and it is prepared by the humanitarian coordinator s and launched globally
by the UN Secretary General before the beginning of each calendar year.
42 The CHAP gives an outline of humanitarian action taken in a given country or region. It
analysis the humanitarian actions, the need and statement of priorities and suggest the roles
and responsibilities ,to which, who does, what and where etc.
43 The Working Group on the CAP analyse the working of the CAP and give prioritization to
training , conducting workshops in this field, resources mobilization etc.
44 Since its inception in 1993, UNDAC has sent 1,000 deployments. In 2009 itself UNDAC
deployed 11 teams in response to sudden onset disasters in Africa, Asia, Pacific and Central
America. Nine of those disasters were related to floods or cyclone. Two were earthquakes,
one of which triggered as tsunami in Samoa. For more details see www.reliefweb.int/rw/
rwh.nsf accessed on 5th Jan 2010 at 4 pm.
45 The UNDAC can dispatch there team with 12-24 hours upon with the request of a disaster
stricken country. The team can be deployed within as to carry out rapid assessment of
priority needs and to support national authorities and the United Nations humanitarian
coordinator to coordinate international relief on site. Since the inception in 1993 UNDAC
has made thousands of deployment. In 2009 UNDAC deployed 11 teams in response to
sudden onset disasters in Africa, Asia and the Pacific and Central America. Nine of those
disasters they are related to floods and cyclones. To were earthquakes one of which
triggered as Tsunami in Samoa. One of the most notable UNDAC mission was the
deployment in response to the Sumatra earthquake. www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwh.nsf
accessed on 27th March 2010 at 11pm.
46 It assist the physical scientific aspects of the climate system and climate change and this
includes changes in green house gas emission, observe changes in air, land and ocean
temperature, rainfall, glaciers and ice sheets etc. It was established by the IPCC to overcome
the national green house gas inventories program.
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47 TGICA was established to facilitates cooperation between the climate modeling and climate
impact assessment it aims to facilitating wild availability of climate change related data and
scenario for climate analysis and impacts, adaptation, vulnerability and mitigation research.
http://wwwipcc.in/working_groups accessed on 25th Jan 2010 at 4pm.
48 The structure of WMO includes World Meteorological Congress, Executive Council, Six
Regional Associations, Technical Commission and Secretariat.
49 This program campaigns observing system telecommunicating system data processing and
forecasting centres. They make to available the meteorological and geophysical information
to all countries and coordinate and monitor their programs through WMO. They provide
support for developing international programs related to global climates and other
environmental issues and sustainable developments. WWW is an operational system to
coordinate the rapid collection and exchange of weather data among all WMO members
as well as for the dissemination of weather forecast.
50 It links with global regional and national level in supplying information to analyze and forecast
products. The aim of the system is to provide members with the analysis they require to
enable them to provide in the most cost effective way, high quality forecasting warning and
information services to weather sensitive national activities, forecast violent weather
conditions and very short term forecast of imminent dangers such as tropical cyclone.
51 GOS includes the resources, installation and facilities required for making observations at
stations on land and at sea, from aircraft, meteorological satellites and other platforms. The
system aims to provide high quality observational data from all parts of the world for use in
the preparation of weather analysis , forecasts and warning to provide support for the
relevant programmes of other international organizations.
52 GTS gives rapid and reliable collection and distribution of observed data and information,
forecast and warning systems to prevent meteorological origin disasters.
53 WMO established its Public Weather System programme in 1994. It provides assistance
to national meteorological and hydrological services to develop their capability to
communicate adequate warning message to both the public and the emergency management
community. The assistance is provided through training activities and the publication of
guidelines on media , the use of internet and the use of new technologies and research
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54 The purpose of WCP is to assist WMO members and relevant regional and international
organizations in using climate information to reduce negative impacts of climate variability
and to derive benefits from climate as a resource in order to enhance public safety, health
and welfare WMO place a central role in contributing to the safety of life and property,
social economic development of nation and protection of the environment through its
multifaceted programs and activities that inform the world on the states and behavior of the
earth atmosphere and climate. WMO’s analysis and early warning is indispensible to the
world community in dealing with natural disasters.
55 WWRP contributes to promote research on cost effective and improved techniques for
the forecast of high impact weather phenomena such as tropical cyclones, sand and dust
storms, flooding due to heavy rainfall.
56 The HWRP is to promote the effective use of hydrology in the frame work of integrated
water resources management for sustainable development, to assist in risk reduction of
water related disaster, to support effective environmental management at national regional
and international level. HWRP establish technical cooperation projects for flood risk
assessment and forecasting water related hazards with focus on major floods and drought.
HWRP and the global water partnership launched a joint project for Associated Programme
on Flood Management (APFM) in the context of integrated water resources management
which considered both negative and positive aspects of floods.
57 It includes the programme like rapid health assessment, risk assessment, vulnerability
mapping and early warning system etc.
58 One of the basic principles of WHO is to strengthen the health capacity of member countries
at international, national and sub national level. EHA’s activities and projects for emergency
health capacity includes training for emergency health management, research, building in
house competencies etc
59 World Food Programme provides food aid in humanitarian crisis situations arising both
man made and natural hazards, while also supporting relief and rehabilitation efforts as well
as livelihood protection. WFP’s priority areas of competences are emergency preparedness
and response. see www.afp.org accessed on 25th July 2009 at 1pm.
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60 General Assembly Resolution 2997(XXVIII) in 1972. This is an institutional and financial
arrangement for international environment cooperation. There are 58 members and are
elected by General Assembly for four year terms.
61 This branch serve as the basis for the development and implementation of programmes on
disaster reduction at all levels.
62 The Kosovo conflict was taken in 1998-99. This results in poverty due to environmental
scarcity of arable land and water, resulting in loss of livelihood.
63 General Assembly Resolution 44/224 and 46/217.
64 The Rio Declaration specifically stated the importance of international community to spare
its effort in assisting countries with ecological disasters.
65 See Principle 6 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
66 See Principle 2 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
67 See Principle 3 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
68 See Principle 4,5,7 and 8 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
69 See Principle 10 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
70 See Principle 15 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
71 See Principle 16 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
72 See Principle 17 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
73 See Principle 18 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
74 See Principles 20, 21 and 26 of Earth Summit of Rio Declaration, 1992.
75 Limitation to disaster communication includes organizational barriers which impede the
flow of information among the various elements of the international disaster response
network; uncertainty over the availability and location of communication equipment which
could be made accessible for disaster use; regulatory barriers which slow down the
importation and operation of communications equipment; high coast which inhibit the
effective use of communication equipment during disasters.
115
76 The satellite and terrestrial equipments are used to predict, monitor and provide information
concerning disasters. see Article 3 (2)(a) of the Convention on Disaster Communication,
1998.
77 See Article 3(2)(b) of the Convention on Disaster Communication, 1998.
78 See Article 3(2)(d) of the Convention on Disaster Communication, 1998.
79 See Article 4(1) of the Convention on Disaster Communication,1998.
80 See Article 4(2)of the Convention on Disaster Communication,1998.
81 See Article 4(3) of the Convention on Disaster Communication,1998.
82 See Article 6(1) and (3) of the Convention on Disaster Communication, 1998.
83 See Article 4 (7)of the Convention on Disaster Communication, 1998.
84 See Article 9(2) and (3) of the Convention on Disaster Communication, 1998.
85 Article 4(8) of Convention on Climate Change, 1992.
86 Article 6 of Convention on Climate Change, 1992.
87 The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on 11 December 1997 and entered
into force on 16 February 2005. The detailed rules for the implementation of the Protocol
were adopted at COP 7 in Marrakesh in 2001, and are called the “Marrakesh Accords.”
88 The major feature of the Kyoto Protocol is that it sets binding targets for 37 industrialized
countries and the European community for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
over the five-year period 2008-2012.
89 The other units which may be transferred under the scheme, each equal to one tone of
CO2, may be in the form of a removal unit (RMU) on the basis of land use, land-use
change and forestry (LULUCF) activities such as reforestation . An emission reduction
unit (ERU) generated by a joint implementation project A certified emission reduction
(CER) generated from a clean development mechanism project activity .Transfers and
acquisitions of these units are tracked and recorded through the registry systems under the
Kyoto Protocol. An international transaction log ensures secure transfer of emission reduction
units between countries.
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90 See Article 17 of the Kyoto Protocol.
91 See Article 12 of Kyoto Protocol
92 A CDM project must provide emission reductions that are additional to what would
otherwise have occurred. The projects must qualify through a rigorous and public registration
and issuance process. Approval is given by the Designated National Authorities. Public
funding for CDM project activities must not result in the diversion of official development
assistance. The mechanism is overseen by the CDM Executive Board, answerable ultimately
to the countries that have ratified the Kyoto Protocol. Operational since the beginning of
2006, the mechanism has already registered more than 1,650 projects and is anticipated
to produce CERs amounting to more than 2.9 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent in the first
commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, 2008–2012.
93 See Article 16 of the Kyoto Protocol.
94 A Joint Implementation project must provide a reduction in emissions by sources, or an
enhancement of removals by sinks, that is additional to what would otherwise have occurred.
Projects must have approval of the host Party and participants have to be authorized to
participate by a Party involved in the project. Projects starting as from the year 2000 may
be eligible as Joint Implementation projects if they meet the relevant requirements, but
ERUs may only be issued for a crediting period starting after the beginning of 2008.
95 FCCC/CP/2007/6 14th March 2007.The 13th session of the Conference of the Parties to
the UNFCCC and the 3rd session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting
of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol took place in Bali and was hosted by the Government
of Indonesia. Also sitting were the twenty-seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for
Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice
(SBSTA) and the resumed fourth session of the Ad hoc Working Group on Further
Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP).
96 The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertificationis mainly focused on those
countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, the
Convention’s full name, was adopted on 17 June 1994 and opened for signature in Paris in
October that year. As at 14 January 1997, the Convention (CCD) had been ratified by 60
countries. It entered into force on 26 December 1996. The stated objective of the
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Convention is “to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries
experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa ....” To achieve
this goal, the Convention calls for action involving international cooperation and a partnership
approach. It focuses on improving land productivity, rehabilitation of land, conservation
and sustainable management of land and water resources. Such action should also prevent
the long-term consequences of desertification, including mass migration, species loss, climate
change and the need for emergency assistance to populations in crisis. “The Convention’s
entry into force offers an opportunity for the international community to turn its attention to
the most impoverished peoples of the planet”, says Hama Arba Diallo, the Convention’s
Executive Secretary. “It will bring renewed hope to millions of people living in fragile dryland
ecosystems and help them start on the road to sustainable development.”
97 One quarter of the earth’s land is threatened by desertification, according to estimates by
the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Desertification does not mean that
deserts are steadily advancing or taking over neighbouring land. As defined by the UN
Convention, desertification is a process of “land degradation in arid, semi-arid and dry
sub-humid areas resulting from various factors, including climatic variations and human
activities”.
98 Human activities are usually the most significant causes. Over-cultivation exhausts the soil.
Overgrazing removes vegetation that prevents soil erosion. Trees that bind the soil together
are cut for lumber or firewood for heating and cooking. Poorly drained irrigation turns
cropland salty.This cause significant underlying causes include social and economic factors
in developing countries, such as poverty, high population growth rates, unequal land
distribution, refugee flows, modernization that disrupts traditional farming practices, and
government policies that encourage the growing of cash crops on marginal land to pay off
foreign debts.
99 See Article 4 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996
100 See Article 5 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996
101 See Article 9 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
102 See Article 10 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
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103 See Article 14 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
104 See Article 17 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
105 See Article 16 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
106 See Article 19 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
107 See Article 20 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
108 See Article 21 of UN Convention on Combating Desrtification,1996.
109 See Art 2 of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000.
110 See Art 3(c) of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
111 See Art 3(d) of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
112 See Art 3(e) of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
113 See Art4 (1)of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
114 See Art4 (3)of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
115 See Art4 (6)of the Convention on Civil Defence, 2000
116 General Assembly resolution 44/236. The state members of the UN’s and other
states having met at the World Conference on Natural Disaster Reduction in the
city of Yokohama in Japan from 23rd May to 27th may 1994 in partnership with
NGOs and with the participation of International organisatios, the scientific
community, business, industry and the media, deliberating within the framework
of the IDNDR expressing deep concern for the continuing human sufferings
and disruption of development caused by the natural disaster and inspired by the
Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action. The World Conference aims to protect
the lives of the citizen of a nation through regional and international cooperation.
The conference also aims disaster risk reduction can be achieved through
community participation
117 See Basis of the Strategy 2.
119
118 See Basis of the Strategy 3.
119 See Basis of the Strategy 8(h).
120 See General Assembly resolution A/RES/44/236.
121 Reduction under the auspices of the United Nations, would pay special attention to fostering
international co-operation in the field of natural disaster reduction, it recognize the importance
of environmental protection for the prevention of natural disasters, recognizing the necessity
to mobilize and use existing scientific and technical knowledge to mitigate natural disasters,
recognize the importance of the United Nations to promoting international co-operation
to mitigate natural disasters and special attention to least developed , land-locked and
island developing countries in that regard. The goals of the Decade are (a) To improve the
capacity of each country to mitigate the effects of natural disasters (b) To devise appropriate
guidelines and strategies for applying existing scientific and technical knowledge (c) To
foster scientific and engineering endeavors aimed at closing critical gaps in knowledge in
order to reduce loss of life and property (d) To disseminate existing and new technical
information related to prediction and mitigation of natural disasters This IDNDR adopts
International Framework of Action for Natural Disaster Reduction. this includes Policy
measures to be taken at the national level , Action to be taken by the United Nations
system, Secretariat and organizational arrangements during the Decade, Special high-level
council etc. For more details see www.un.org/documents/ga/res/44 accessed on 10th
August 2012 at 7pm.
122 General Assembly resolution 58/214 of December 2003.
123 A/CONF.206/L/1. With the aim of ensuring the early and successful implementation of the
Yokohama Strategy and Plan of Action, the Conference decided to transmit the report of
the World Conference containing Yokohama Strategy, request the General Assembly to
consider adopting a resolution endorsing the Yokohama Strategy, Transmit the outcome of
the World Conference, request the UN to give technical assistance in the preparation and
development of disaster management plan and programmes.
124 Resolution adopted by General Assembly 55/2, 2000. This summit was held in
New York in September, 2000. A total of189 world leaders met and adopted the
UN Millennium Declaration.
125 See MDG 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.
120
126 See MDG 2: Achieve universal primary education.
127 See MDG 3: Promote gender equality and empower women.
128 See MDGs 4, 5 and 6: Reduce child mortality, improve maternal health andcombat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases.
129 See MDG 7: Ensure environmental sustainability.
130 See MDG 8: Develop a global partnership for development.
131 9th meeting of the parties to the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran,1971) conducted
in 2005.This meeting gave way to the protection and mitigation of impacts associated with
natural phenomena, including those induced or exacerbated by human activities. Resolution
IX.9. really the Convention is for the wetland conservation.
132 The General Assembly at its 59th session endorse Mauritius Declaration and Strategy for
Future Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of
Small Island Developing States, held in Port Louis from 10 to 14 of January 2005
133 See Principle 13 of Mauritius Declaration, 2005.
134 See Principle 10 of Mauritius Declaration, 2005.
135 See Principle 11 of Mauritius Declaration, 2005.
136 See Principle 18 of Mauritius Declaration, 2005.
137 The other areas of concern are management of wastes, coastal and marine resources,
fresh water resources, land resources, energy resources, transport and communication,
science and technology etc.
138 The Second International Conference on Early Warning (EWC-II), 2003 took place in
Bonn, Germany, from 16-18 October 2003,. It was hosted by the Government of Germany
and supported by the UN Inter-Agency Secretariat of the International Strategy for Disaster
Reduction (ISDR). Over 300 participants attended, including ministers and government.
139 Community includes particularly those most vulnerable, are fundamental to people-centred
early warning systems. They should be actively involved in all aspects of the establishment
and operation of early warning systems; be aware of the hazards and potential impacts to
which they are exposed; and be able to take actions to minimize the threat of loss or
damage.
121
140 Local governments, like communities and individuals, are at the centre of effective early
warning systems. They should be empowered by national governments, have considerable
knowledge of the hazards to which their communities are exposed and be actively involved
in the design and maintenance of early warning systems. They must understand advisory
information received and be able to advise, instruct and engage the local population and
officials, representatives of UN and other multilateral organizations, assistance agencies,
technical and research institutions and non-governmental organizations in a manner that
increases public safety and reduces the possible loss of resources on which the community
depends.
141 National governments are responsible for high-level policies and frameworks that facilitate
early warning and for the technical systems that predict and issue national hazard warnings.
National governments should interact with regional and international governments and
agencies to strengthen early warning capacities and ensure that warnings and related
responses are directed towards the most vulnerable populations. The provision of support
to local communities and governments to develop operational capabilities is also an essential
function.
142 International bodies can provide international coordination, standardization, and support
for national early warning activities and foster the exchange of data and knowledge between
individual countries and regions.
143 Non-governmental organisations play a role in raising awareness among individuals,
communities and organizations involved in early warning, particularly at the community
level. They can also assist with implementing early warning systems and in preparing
communities for natural disasters. In addition, they can play an important advocacy role to
help ensure that early warning stays on the agenda of government policy makers.
144 The private sector has a diverse role to play in early warning, including developing early
warning capabilities in their own organizations.
145 The science and academic community has a critical role in providing specialized scientific
and technical input to assist governments and communities in developing early warning
systems.
146 General Assembly Resolution 64/236 (A/RES/64/236), It is being organized in pursuance
of and will take place in Brazil on 20-22 June 2012 to mark the 20th anniversary of the
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1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), in Rio de
Janeiro, and the 10th anniversary of the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD)
in Johannesburg, 2002. The objective of the Conference is to secure renewed political
commitment for sustainable development, assess the progress to date and the remaining
gaps in the implementation of the outcomes of the major summits on sustainable development,
and address new and emerging challenges. The Conference will focus on two themes: (a)
a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication; and
(b) the institutional framework for sustainable development.
147 Rio+20 - the short name for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development
to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 2012 - is an historic opportunity to define
pathways to a safer, more equitable, cleaner, greener and more prosperous world for all.
Twenty years after the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio, where countries adopted Agenda 21 -
a blueprint to rethink economic growth, advance social equity and ensure environmental
protection - the UN is again bringing together governments, international institutions and
major groups to agree on a range of smart measures that can reduce poverty while promoting
decent jobs, clean energy and a more sustainable and fair use of resources.
148 Thousands of participants from governments, the private sector, NGOs and other
stakeholders will gather in Rio at the end of May and beginning of June 2012 for a strong
push towards sustainable development. The last session of the Preparatory Committee for
the Conference and the actual conference will take place there in June 2012 See
www.uncsd2012.org accessed on 11th August 2012 at 11 pm.
149 The Secretariat is headed by Conference Secretary-General Sha Zukang, who is supported
by two Executive Coordinators: Elizabeth Thompson (former Minister of Environment of
Barbados) and Ambassador Brice Lalonde (Former Minister of Environment of France).
The preparatory process is led by an 11-member Bureau composed of UN Ambassadors
from all regions of the world.
150 The preparations for Rio 20 have highlighted seven areas. Which need priority attention,
these include decent jobs, energy, sustainable cities, food security and sustainable agriculture,
water, oceans and disaster readiness.
151 The UN General Assembly established a biennial Global Platform on disaster risk reduction6
to support the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action, allowing government
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representatives, NGOs, scientists, practitioners, private sector, IFIs and UN organizations
to share experiences, identify remaining gaps, formulate strategic guidance and advice for
the implementation of the HFA. Six Regional Platforms and over 80 National Platforms
have also been established as multi-stakeholder forums. 7 Regional Platforms also assess
progress but focus on the details of the regional plans of implementation and National
Platforms act as the national coordinating body for disaster risk reduction.
152 See submissions to Rio+20 from G77 & China, European Union & its Member States,
Caribbean Community and Pacific Island Forum on www.uncsd2012.org accessed on
11th August 2012 at 12 pm.
153 See Japan’s input to Rio+20 outcome document. http://www.uncsd2012.org/rio20/
content/documents/113Japan.pdf accessed on 10th August 2012 at 1pm.
154 See UNISDR’s World Disaster Risk Reduction Campaign 2010-2015, Making Cities
Resilient:”My city is getting ready” at http://www.unisdr.org/english/campaigns/
campaign2010-2015 accessed on 14th August 2012 at 1pm.
155 www.unisdr.org accessed on 12th August 2012 at 11pm.