Disaster Risk Reduction policies in a fast-changing scenario: howto improve ownership and inclusion

Abstract

This policy brief intends to provide information and support for advocacy in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) policy making. It develops around the idea, shared among others by the United Nations (UN) the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO), as well as the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, that there is no such thing as a natural disaster, and the risk of what disasters there are can therefore be reduced by people. The brief addresses the need to build ownership and to foster inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction framework and its associated policies. It first presents the main concepts and frameworks of reference for DRR actors. Then it gives an overview of the main global trends, both positive and challenging, drawing from experiences matured during recent disasters. Finally, it proposes recommendations to policy actors.