Purpose
This paper attempts to address some of the shortcomings of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) and to move the debate beyond the simplistic focus of including vulnerable groups within disaster risk reduction (DRR) policy-making. By promoting socio-economic and cultural inclusion as well as the political recognition of marginalised people, this paper provides examples of where their participation as active agents of change has proven beneficial in effectively and equitably building resilience.
The paper also makes the case for increased attention to the wider issues of vulnerability, inclusion and empowerment. In this respect it focuses on four main aspects: marginalised groups are more likely to suffer from disasters; disasters exacerbate vulnerabilities and social inequalities; vulnerable groups tend to be excluded from DRR decision-making, thus making them even more vulnerable to the impacts of disasters; and vulnerable groups should be included in DRR as active agents of change to effectively and equitably build resilience.
Overview
Poor living conditions, inadequate infrastructure, a lack of income diversification and limited access to basic services, especially education and information, ensure that the poorest and most marginalised people are disproportionately affected by disasters. Committing to address the root causes of disasters will help to address peoples’ underlying vulnerabilities, increase their capacities to cope with the effects of natural hazards and facilitate empowerment processes. This can be achieved by the equal participation of all segments of society in DRR decisions.
Usage: Policy development
Audiences: National Society leadership; Technical staff
Reference: United Nations Division for the Advancement of Women, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. (April 2004). Making Risky Environments Safer. Women 2000 and beyond. Published by the Division for the Advancement of Women/DESA. Pp.1-28. Available from: http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/public/w2000-natdisasters-e.pdf [Accessed: 19th September 2015].
