Why Disaster Preparedness Still Falling Short

Despite years of significant investments in disaster preparedness, many vulnerabilities still persist, especially in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This ongoing challenge is driven by several factors that require closer examination.

- Dr. Eilia jafar

First, it’s critical to recognize the successes that have been accomplished. One significant achievement is integrating the concept of disaster risk reduction (DRR) into national and international development processes. For instance, at the 2016 Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR), the Indian prime minister presented an extensive 10-point program. Putting disaster risk management into the nation’s development plan was the primary focus of this initiative. On the global stage, frameworks like the Sendai Framework for DRR, the Hyogo Framework for Action, and the Paris Agreement have pushed for a more inclusive, problem-solving approach to disaster risk management.

The shift from a response-driven approach to one focused on risk reduction and preparedness has been widely praised. But this raises an important question— can we afford to move away from response strategies? Or should there be a balance between investments in both disaster preparedness and response? Given the complexities of climate change and the evolving nature of hazards, it would be unwise to assume we can eliminate disaster risks completely. Thus, investments in response mechanisms including recovery that reduce future vulnerabilities remain crucial. Unfortunately, efforts to fund recovery from disasters have been minimal.