DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Every year, across the world, people are affected by disasters caused by natural hazards (such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, cyclones, volcanic eruptions, drought, wildfires), epidemics or human-induced threats as conflict and violence. Exposure and vulnerability to these hazards and threats, which are often overlapping, are exacerbated by population growth, rapid and unplanned urbanisation, environmental degradation, poverty, and, finally yet importantly, climate change.

In this context, it is vitally important that vulnerable communities, governments, civil society, local and international organisations are prepared to respond in the timeliest and most effective way to minimise loss of life, livelihoods and assets. In so doing, preparedness for response and early action can help reduce humanitarian needs caused by a crisis.  

For these reasons, each year, the Worldwide Decision designate a dedicated amount for Disaster Preparedness targeted interventions under the Disaster Preparedness Budget Line.

(This substitutes the Disaster Preparedness Programme – DIPECHO funded in 1996. All planned interventions and funding are integrated under the regular DG ECHO HIPs. For more information, see the section on HIPs).

While activities should be always contextualised to address the actual needs, risks and challenges of the reality in which they are implemented, an indicative list of preparedness activities is as follows:

• Establishment/strengthening of Early Warning Systems (EWS).

• Preparedness for and implementation of Anticipatory Actions.

• Logistics (ex. stockpiling equipment and supplies).

• Strengthening capacity (for ex. training for search and rescue, improving technical skills, etc).  

• Advocate and supporting the establishment of Shock Responsive Social Protection (SRSP).

• Improving preparedness for cash interventions.

• Strengthening institutional, Policy and Legislative Frameworks related to preparedness and response.

• Establishment and strengthening of information management, data and use of technology.

• Development and testing of contingency plans.

• Raising advocacy and awareness about risk and the importance of preparedness.