Disaster Risk Reduction: A Global Perspective

1. DESASTER RISK REDUCTION - GLOBAL, REGIONAL & NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE - Dr. Pande LAZAREVSKI National Coordinator for NPDRR Implementation and Chair of the European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction

2. DESASTER RISK REDUCTION- GLOBAL, REGIONAL & NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE - What is Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)? UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) The Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA): 2005 - 2015 The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) GPDRR 2007 GPDRR 2009 GPDRR 2011 Regional Platforms European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR) National Platforms Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction Understanding Disaster Risk Reduction as a lifestyle…

3. What is Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)? There is no such thing as a 'natural' disaster, only natural hazards. DRR aims to reduce the damage caused by natural hazards like earthquakes, floods, droughts and cyclones, through an ethic, habits and practice of prevention. Disaster risk reduction is the concept and practice of reducing disaster risks through systematic efforts to analyse and reduce the causal factors of disasters. Reducing exposure to hazards, lessening vulnerability of people and property, wise management of land and the environment, and improving preparedness for adverse events are all examples of disaster risk reduction. Disaster risk reduction is about choices. A disaster's severity depends on how much impact a hazard has on society and the environment. The scale of the impact in turn depends on the choices we make for our lives and for our environment, even what we teach in schools. Each decision and action makes us more vulnerable to disasters - or more resilient to them. "The more governments, UN agencies, organizations, businesses and civil society understand risk and vulnerability, the better equipped they will be to mitigate disasters when they strike and save more lives" -- Ban Ki-moon, United Nations Secretary-GeneralDisaster risk reduction is everyone's business. Disaster risk reduction includes disciplines like disaster management, disaster mitigation and disaster preparedness, but DRR is also part of sustainable development. DRR involves every part of society, every part of government, and every part of the professional and private sector.

4. UNISDR - part of the United Nations Secretariat Our mandate is to serve as the focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of disaster reduction and to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities. Created in December 1999, UNISDR is the secretariat of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR). It is the successor to the secretariat of the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction with the purpose of ensuring the implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (General Assembly (GA) resolution 54/219). The mandate of UNISDR expanded in 2001 to serve as the focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of disaster reduction and to ensure synergies among the disaster reduction activities of the United Nations system and regional organizations and activities in socio-economic and humanitarian fields (GA resolution 56/195). This was in response to a need for mainstreaming disaster risk reduction within the development and other areas of work of the UN. The "Hyogo Declaration" and the "Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters" was adopted by the World Conference on Disaster Reduction, held in Kobe, Hyogo, Japan, in January 2005. The Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) tasked UNISDR with supporting the implementation of the HFA.

5. UNISDR inform and connect people by providing practical services and tools - such as the disaster risk reduction community website PreventionWeb, publications on good practices and DRR guidance, country profiles and policy advice. Its core areas of work includes ensuring disaster risk reduction (DRR) is applied to climage change adaptation, increasing investments for DRR, building disaster-resilient cities, schools and hospitals, and strengthening the interational system for DRR. UNISDR's vision is based on the three strategic goals of the Hyogo Framework for Action: integrating DRR into sustainable development policies and planning, developing and strengthening institutions, mechanisms and capacities to build resilience to hazards, and incorporating risk reduction approaches into emergency preparedness, response, and recovery programmes. UNISDR leads the preparation and follow-up of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, establishment in 2006 (GA resolution 61/198). Other areas of work for UNISDR includes issuing the Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction every two years, supporting countries in monitoring risk trends and the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action, and leading global campaigns on disaster risk reduction for safer schools, safer hospitals and safer cities.

6. UNISDR - coordinate and sustain partnerships to build disaster resilience and promote disaster risk reduction. Through the Global Platform, Regional Platforms and National Platforms, and with public, private, and civil partners, we advise and monitor the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action. Global Assessment Report » The Global Assessment Report (GAR) is a biennial global assessment of disaster risk reduction and comprehensive review and analysis of the natural hazards that are affecting humanity. PreventionWeb » Serving the information needs of the disaster reduction community, PreventionWeb is a project of UNISDR and was launched in 2007. Terminology » UNISDR develop these basic definitions on disaster risk reduction to promote a common understanding on the subject for use by the public, authorities and practitioners. Publications » UNISDR has published over 200 documents on disaster risk reduction with partners. Search and download them for free. Events » Want to know more about what disaster risk reduction activities are happening around the world? Library » The UNISDR Library is an information centre for disaster risk reduction with over 10,000 publications, multimedia products and education resources. UN Resolutions and Reports » UNISDR is supported by the UN General Assembly Resolutions and the UN Secretary-General Report on the Implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction. Multimedia » See the latest videos from UNISDR's YouTube channel.

7. Hyogo Framework for ActionThe Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) is the guiding document in strengthening and building international cooperation to ensure that disaster risk reduction be used as a foundation for sound national and international development agendas. The Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) is a 10-year plan to make the world safer from natural hazards, adopted by 168 Member States of the United Nations in 2005 at the World Disaster Reduction Conference, which took place just a few weeks after the Indian Ocean Tsunami. The Hyogo Framework for Action: - Is the first plan to explain, describe and detail the work that is required from all different sectors and actors to reduce disaster losses. - was developed and agreed on with the many partners needed to reduce disaster risk - governments, international agencies, disaster experts and many others - bringing them into a common system of coordination. - outlines five priorities for action, and offers guiding principles and practical means for achieving disaster resilience. - Its goal is to substantially reduce disaster losses by 2015 by building the resilience of nations and communities to disasters. This means reducing loss of lives and social, economic, and environmental assets when hazards strike.

8. SUMMARY of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015:Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters (Hyogo Framework)Outcome of the World Conference on Disaster Reduction, Hyogo, Kobe Japan, 18-22 Jan 2005 Expected outcome, strategic goals and priorities for action 2005-2015 Expected Outcome: The substantial reduction of disaster losses, in lives and in the social, economic and environmental assets of communities and countries • Strategic Goals • The integration of disaster risk reduction into sustainable development policies and planning • Development and strengthening of institutions, mechanisms and capacities to build resilience to hazards • The systematic incorporation of risk reduction approaches into the implementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery programmes • Priorities for Action • Ensure that disaster risk reduction is a national and a local priority with a strong institutional basis for implementation. • Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning. • Use knowledge, innovation and education to build a culture of safety and resilience at all levels. • Reduce the underlying risk factors. • Strengthen disaster preparedness for effective response at all levels.

9. SUMMARY of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015:Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters (Hyogo Framework)Outcome of the World Conference on Disaster Reduction, Hyogo, Kobe Japan, 18-22 Jan 2005 Implementation and Follow-Up In order to achieve the goals and act upon the priorities identified in this Framework, the following tasks have been identified to ensure implementation and follow-up by States, regional and international organizations in collaboration with civil society and other stakeholders. • Cross Cutting Issues • Multi-hazard approach • Gender perspective and cultural diversity • Community and volunteers participation • Capacity building & technology transfer • General Considerations • Implementation by different stakeholders, multisectoral approach; participation of civil society (NGOs, CBOs, volunteers), scientific community & private sector is vital • States primarily responsible; an enabling international environment is vital, incl. strengthened regional capacities • Build multistakeholder partnerships • Particular attention to: Small island developing States: Mauritius Strategy; - Africa • States, regional and international organizations to foster coordination among themselves and a strengthened International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) • Follow-up integrated with other major conferences in fields relevant to DRR; reviews as appropriate • Actors • States • Regional Organizations and Institutions • International Organizations (including UN System and IFIs)

10. SUMMARY of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015:Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters (Hyogo Framework)Outcome of the World Conference on Disaster Reduction, Hyogo, Kobe Japan, 18-22 Jan 2005 Resource Mobilization: States, Regional and International Organizations • Mobilize resources and capabilities of relevant national, regional and international bodies, including the UN system; • Provide and support the implementation of the HFA in disaster prone developing countries, including through financial and technical assistance, addressing debt sustainability, technology transfer, public-private partnership and North-South and South-South cooperation; • Mainstream DRR measures into multilateral and bilateral development assistance programmes • Provide adequate voluntary financial contribution to the UN Trust Fund for DR to support follow-up activities to HFA review usage and feasibility for the expansion of this fund; • Develop partnership to implement schemes that spread out risks, reduce insurance premiums, expand insurance coverage and increase financing for post-disaster reconstruction, including through public and private partnerships. Promote an environment that encourages a culture of insurance in developing countries.

11. The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction The Global Platform for Disaster Reduction (established 2007) - managed by the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, with the core function to support the implementation of the Hyogo Framework of Action. • a biennial forum for information exchange, discussion of latest development and knowledge and partnership building across sectors, • the goal - to improve implementation of disaster risk reduction through better communication and coordination amongst stakeholders, to assess and share information as well as set new directions for the disaster risk reduction imperative, with emphasis on local initiatives and activities. • the world’s foremost gathering of stakeholders committed to reducing disaster risk and building the resilience of communities and nations, bringing together disaster risk reduction, recovery and reconstruction experts, policy makers and practitioners, from government, international organizations (United Nations agencies, international financial institutions, regional bodies), NGOs the scientific and academic communities, and the private sector from both developing and developed countries

12. The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction The Global Platform is foreseen to become the main global forum for all parties involved in disaster risk reduction, namely Governments, United Nations agencies, international financial institutions, regional bodies, civil society, the private sector, and the scientific and academic communities to: • Raise awareness on reducing disaster risk: • Increase the profile of disaster risk reduction as part of development and climate change adaptation, recognizing that it is “everybody's business” and must be a multi-stakeholder undertaking, with Governments' playing a central role; • Reiterate the commitment of policy and decision-makers to implement the Hyogo Framework for Action. • Share experience: • Learn from good practice; • Provide practical guidance for nations and communities to reduce disaster risk. • Guide the ISDR system: • Assess progress made in implementing the Hyogo Framework, and identify obstacles, critical problems and emerging issues that must be addressed to speed up national and local implementation; • Enhance cooperation and concerted action by the international community to support national and local implementation of disaster risk reduction including identification of priorities for the ISDR system for 2008-2009.

13. The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction Thematic support for the GP/DRR Based and building on existing networks, clusters and other mechanisms, a number of self-organized thematic platforms mainly composed of technical and scientific bodies have already been established which are expected to participate actively in the strengthened ISDR system and provide thematic support to the Global Platform. It is also proposed that the Global Platform set up a Science Committee to guide and strengthen the scientific and technical basis of the ISDR. The proposed Committee will advocate and guide the necessary actions related to scientific and technical issues within the ISDR system, including related matters of innovation, such as setting agendas and priority questions, initiating studies and reports, and proposing the establishment of panels, working groups or other means to carry out those actions, subject to the consent or authorisation of the Global Platform.

14. This first session: particular emphasis on topical issues of concern to policy makers and specific substantive themes (especially those linked to the Hyogo Framework’s first priority for action): • Reducing disaster risk through the Hyogo Framework for Action as a key strategy for climate change adaptation. • Challenges in reducing disaster risk in urban settings and mega-cities. • Roadblocks, costs, and opportunities to implement disaster risk reduction policy. • Summary of the first GPDRR session: • Supporting country efforts • Programme focus • UN ISDR system development

15. Summary of the first GPDRR session: Supporting country efforts … to build their basic institutional capacities, to develop or revise legislation and policy frameworks, to provide budgets, and to implement national platforms and action plans.... sharing their knowledge and best practices, particularly on legislation and institution building, and by donating expertise and funds … Investment in risk reduction needs to be substantially increased. National and local government budgets should adopt targets such as a certain percentage of sector budgets. International funding should be better coordinated and tracked …, as well as to monitor …. and to measure the performance of investments in reducing risks. …. Countries need to quickly establish systems to monitor and report on their risk profiles and on the implementation of HFA, including best practice codes, verifiable indicators, benchmarks and targets, in order to guide action and improve accountability for results. … to integrate disaster risk reduction into sustainable development and poverty reduction frameworks and mechanisms and into environmental management tools. …. Mainstreaming efforts should target sectors, communities and groups that are particularly vulnerable, such as infrastructure, health and education sectors, and low-income and other marginal groups.

16. Summary of the first GPDRR session: 2. Programme focus … disseminate and apply relevant disaster reduction tools to support adaptation to climate change, with special attention to countries identified to be most vulnerable, and should work closely with climate change policy makers to develop synergies between the HFA and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change processes… …. All cities and local authorities should create and implement a disaster risk reduction plan, including multi-sectoral disaster preparedness plans with strong civil society participation. …. There is a great need for advocacy and education, with clear and consistent messages, to stimulate awareness and active support by political leaders, managers, professional groups, and the general public. …. A critical assessment of the economic and social costs and benefits of different risk reduction measures should be undertaken, … in order to provide decision makers with compelling evidence for investing in disaster risk reduction …. awareness-raising and action to address gender factors in disaster risk and in particular should actively promote women’s participation and leadership in disaster risk reduction. …. to build the new level of systematic approaches that are needed …multi-stakeholder voluntary guidelines and codes of practice can play a major role in this task. …. a strong foundation of scientific and technical data and knowledge on patterns and trends in hazards and vulnerabilities and a well-tested set of risk reduction methodologies and practical actions.

17. Summary of the first GPDRR session: 3. UN ISDR system development …. promoting and catalysing widespread engagement and partnerships in disaster risk reduction and for achieving commitment and international coordination and guidance to implement the HFA. …. Thematic networks and civil society networks should be encouraged and linked together to achieve rapid global exchange of ideas, viewpoints and good practices. …. planning and implementing coherent joint activities to support risk reduction by Governments and others. …. to advance understanding, share experience, assess progress and renew commitments. ….coordinating further action on the following elements: the joint planning framework; the scientific and technical advisory mechanism; the enhancement of regional and thematic processes and mechanisms. to develop and disseminate information and guidance materials requested by Governments and other ISDR system partners.

18. Building on the Second Session of the Global Platform The benchmarks set out in the Chair's Summary of the Second Session of the Global Platform-2009 focused on: 1. To urgently harmonize the frameworks for both disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in the broader context of poverty reduction and sustainable development; 2. To reduce risk at the community and local levels, through collaborative partnerships based on recognition of the mutual dependence; 3. To move from isolated actions and pilot projects to full implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action by 2015; 4. To scale-up action and funding from national budgets and international sources … as well as starting to measure the effectiveness of investment in risk reduction; 5. Mid-Term Review of the Hyogo Framework for Action would require ownership on the part of Governments, the close involvement of civil society, and strengthened regional capacities for coordination and support. Outcomes To establish direction and focus, advance local and national implementation, and introduce new investments and commitments. a model for substantive, multi-stakeholder dialogue with sessions designed to foster interactivity and partnership-building among stakeholder groups.

19. Reducing Disaster Risks through Science: Issues and Actions Report of the ISDR Scientific and Technical Committee Disasters, disaster risk reduction, and the role of science Practical applications of natural and social sciences to reduce vulnerability Selected topics - climate change, early warning, health and societal resilience Achieving a more effective interplay of science, technology and policy Recommendations Following the considerations above, and as detailed more fully in the associated full report, the Scientific and Technical Committee makes the following recommendations. (i) Promote knowledge into action Greater priority should be put on sharing and disseminating scientific information and translating it into practical methods that can readily be integrated into policies, regulations and implementation plans concerning disaster risk reduction. (ii) Use a problem-solving approach that integrates all hazards and disciplines A holistic, all-hazards, risk-based, problem-solving approach should be used to address the multi-factorial nature of disaster risk and disaster risk reduction and to achieve improved solutions and better-optimised use of resources … to make knowledge available for faster implementation, to bridge the various gaps between risks, disciplines, and the stake-holders, and to support education and training, and information and media communication. (iii) Support systematic science programmes Systematic programmes of scientific research, observations and capacity building should be supported at national, regional and international levels to address current problems and emerging risks.

20. The Future … The movement to reduce disaster risks …. will require leadership from Governments, close involvement of community stakeholders, strengthened regional capacities for coordination and programme support, and support from the UNISDR and ISDR partners. …. With strong advocacy, and stronger commitment, greater public awareness and support, and appropriate funds, we can substantially reduce the losses from disasters, as well as contributing to resilient social and economic development. …. The Global Platform thus has a clear and simple message – that disaster risk can be readily reduced through practical action. Solutions exist and are being put into action in many countries. We can invest today for a safer tomorrow.

21. The Third Session of the Global Platform, convened 8-13 May 2011 “Invest Today for a Safer Tomorrow – Increased Investment in Local Action” Main topics: Recovering and Reducing Risks after Disasters - World Reconstruction Conference; Understanding the Economics of Disaster Risk Reduction; Strengthening Alliances for Climate Change Adaptation and Development.

22. The Third Session of the Global Platform, convened 8-13 May 2011 “Invest Today for a Safer Tomorrow – Increased Investment in Local Action” “By its very nature, the work of risk reduction may go unsung. The flood or earthquake one plans for may not happen for years, even generations. And when it does, success is measured by what does not occur: The school that did not collapse. The building that did not fall. The village that was not destroyed. But it goes far deeper. Your efforts are really about making sure that despite the fury and force of natural hazards, communities can continue to thrive ... families can continue to prosper ... children can continue to dream. That is the essence of your work. And there is nothing more meaningful than that.”Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nation “Disaster risk is a reality of today, and a real threat for tomorrow. A threat that can be solved only by fulfilling the commitments and numerous pledges our governments have taken in past decades. It is the most important responsibility of this generation to hand over a less vulnerable world to generations to come, just as Noah did for mankind on the summit of biblical Mount Ararat.” Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, President of the Republic of Macedonia

23. Discussion Paper for theThird Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference, 8-13 May 2011, Geneva Discussion points: the effective involvement of communities and local authorities in planning integrated, multi-hazard approaches to disasters: national institutional arrangements are not enough to promote effective action when resources do not reach local communities. the role of the private sector, especially in the local setting… infrastructure and reconstruction; the economics of disaster risk reduction; building alliances and partnerships in climate adaptation action. integration of disaster risk reduction into development planning, whether in finance, health, education, public works, agriculture, watershed or forest management. Progress and challenges since the Second Session in 2009 The Chair’s Summary of the 2009 Global Platform established common directions for disaster risk reduction in areas of climate change adaption, protecting the most vulnerable, and set some targets for financing risk reduction.

24. Discussion Paper for theThird Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference,8-13 May 2011, Geneva Recalling Commitments from the Second Session of the Global Platform 2009 Setting targets for disaster risk reduction Financing disaster risk reduction Progress at regional and national level Mid Term Review of the Hyogo Framework of Action UN General Assembly: Informal Thematic Debate on Disaster Risk Reduction Key challenges and messages Disaster risk reduction should be repositioned as a development activity, and be included in poverty reduction and “sector planning” (e.g. finance, health, education, agriculture, transport, public works, watershed and forest management). investments in early warning systems and preparedness while the benefits of economic growth are slowly reducing vulnerability, growth that is largely unplanned is exposing an increasing amount of public and private infrastructure to risk. to reinforce and seek stronger commitments to building safe infrastructure. institutional capacity, coherent planning and coordination among all parties, the Increased investment in local action - can offer affected communities the tools and means to respond more quickly to disaster events, to mitigate risk after such events occur and to take more responsibility for their own safety.

25. Discussion Paper for the Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference, Theme of the Third Session: Increased Investment in Local Action The Making Cities Resilient Campaign pursues three key objectives: Know more– raise the awareness of citizens and governments at all levels of the benefits of reducing urban risks. Invest wisely– identify budget allocations within local government funding plans to invest in disaster risk reduction activities. Build more safely– include disaster risk reduction in participatory urban development planning processes and protect critical infrastructure. The Global Assessment Report 2011 and the Mid-Term Review of the Hyogo Framework for Action has also considered the local dimensions of disaster reduction and identified factors contributing to reduced risk. Understanding risk at the local level The balance of responsibility Creating public awareness Questions for consideration What can national governments do to promote public awareness and involvement of local actors in risk reduction? What steps can be taken to ensure that risk information is sufficiently available to guide development investments and risk reduction measures that benefit local action? Who is responsible for ensuring that schools, hospitals and other infrastructure are safe from natural hazards?

26. Discussion Paper for the Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference The issues and challenges were examined at the Third Session of the Global Platform and the World Reconstruction Conference in three broad decision making and planning contexts: Recovering and reducing risk after disasters; Economics of disaster risk reduction; Alliances with climate change adaptation and development. The Way Forward - Potential Outcomes and Actions / Innovative approaches and tools had been developed and applied: the cost benefit analysis of risk reduction efforts; community-based and local level strategies; ensuring the security of facilities such as schools and hospitals .

27. Discussion Paper for the Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference The key areas to guide potential action and outcomes in 2011: (i) Commit to investing in local action and protecting the most vulnerable. Implement strategies to support the local level. (ii) Prioritize investments in: Compiling national disaster loss information and comprehensive risk assessments; Building safe infrastructure; Increasing public awareness; and Strengthening early warning and preparedness. (iii) Scale up advocacy in disaster risk reduction, for example through the Making Cities Resilient campaign. (iv) Develop practical guidance on implementing disaster risk reduction. (v) Engage and encourage the private sector: (vi) Acknowledge disaster risk reduction is primarily a development issue. Support national government efforts across different ministries to encourage building back safer and meet risk reduction objectives. (vii) Harmonize and develop cooperation in climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. (viii) Develop a common resilience plan to support sustainable development in hazard prone areas. (ix) Instigate a debate and consultative process on targets for disaster risk reduction and consider defining, implementing, and monitoring targets at national level, to complement the growing commitment at regional level to support the Hyogo Framework of Action. (x) Promote effective disaster recovery and reconstruction through: Coordinated, comprehensive, inclusive and transparent processes; A proposed global framework to promote principles and establish priorities for maximizing investments and preventing damage of physical structure; and Innovative mechanisms and instruments that could provide developing countries with access to immediate and reliable reconstruction funds.

28. Points from the Official Statement of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia on the Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction “Disaster Risk Reduction is actually a lifestyle, or vice versa, a lifestyle resulting with risk reduction. …the Republic of Macedonia is strongly committed to promoting the merging of risk reduction and adaptation efforts on a national, regional and global level, that implies the following: development of integrated risk assessment methodologies and procedures; establishing mutually interdependent disaster prevention standards, inspection procedures and insurance mechanism introducing national disaster resilience index for international financial support eligibility criteria.” Dr. Pande Lazarevski National Coordinator for NPDRR Implementation

29. Points from the Chair’s Summary on The Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction and World Reconstruction Conference, Geneva, 8-13 May 2011 “Invest today for a Safer Tomorrow – Increase Investment in Local Action.” • “... The choice before us as Governments, institutions, communities and individuals is to place disaster risk reduction at the forefront of our efforts to: • preserve and protect the balance of nature, • ensure sustainable development and • well-being for generations to come. “

30. Chair’s Summary The III Session of the Global Platform - the following critical steps: Identify and prepare for emerging risks, … through scientifically-informed multi-hazard risk assessments and scenario development. Encourage cross-sectoral cooperation that make best use of available information and technology. … ensuring technologies for risk reduction are accessible … and promoting integrated approaches to development that address climate change adaptation, DRR and ecosystem management and restoration. Ensure the availability of tailored science-based climate-related information through the Global Framework for Climate Services to support informed investment and planning at all levels. … Adapt innovative social protection and ecosystem management mechanisms to reduce disaster impacts based on understanding of the dynamics of vulnerability and ensure protection of the most vulnerable households, communities and social groups. …. Support implementation of the Millennium Development Goals by promoting risk reduction strategies that protect development investments. … act upon the commitments at GPDRR 2009. Increase investment in disaster risk reduction …. Encourage collaboration with communities and volunteers (participatory risk assessments and local multi-stake holder monitoring and reporting) Develop DRR standards and indicators. … integrated assessments as the basis for development decision-making... … incentives for investing in prevention… with contingency mechanisms including insurance. …evidence of the costs and benefits of investments through verifiable and accountable data … as a further means of promoting aid-effectiveness. … guidance to National Platforms to improve their effectiveness and support to the executive level of decision-making... and to ensure that responsibility for DRR is backed by the necessary political authority … parliamentarians, local authorities and civil society. Strengthen public awareness of disaster risks through promoting universal access to risk information, education, … and promoting individual safety and responsibility.

31. Chair’s Summary The World Reconstruction Conference: …(to) incorporate disaster prevention into reconstruction and recovery planning… … well-planned and coordinated recovery achieves better results at lower cost, and supports sustainability and disaster-resilience. Leadership, partnership and coordinated support from the international community are essential to success. Committed to developing an effective recovery and reconstruction framework: Better define roles and responsibilities within clear institutional arrangements; Effectively capitalize on the strengths of each stakeholder; Clearly place countries in the driver’s seat on decision-making and resource allocation; Systematically integrate disaster risk reduction in reconstruction and recovery; Provide in-time relevant knowledge and lessons learned; and Assist in establishing robust and transparent quality and result monitoring systems. … access to reliable reconstruction financing; build capacity to manage the surge of resources; effectively integrate the resources of non-traditional donors; and access the global capital market. … linking practitioners and networks working on reconstruction and recovery to provide open access to data and information. … a call for strengthened global leadership to address rapidly increasing risk to stability and sustainability posed by our approach to development.

32. Regional Platforms Regional platforms are multi-stakeholder forums that reflect the commitment of governments to improve coordination and implementation of disaster risk reduction activities while linking to international and national efforts. Inter-governmental collaboration is key to addressing disaster risk reduction at a regional level. Regional inter-governmental organizations have increasingly taken responsibility to follow-up on risk reduction activities and Hyogo Framework for Action implementation. This has transformed into multi-stakeholder platforms for disaster risk reduction in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, the Arab States, Europe and the Americas. They provide an opportunity to exchange information and knowledge among national stakeholders, as well as determining the way forward for DRR action in a given region. Regional Initiatives Governments recognize the need for regional collaboration on disaster risk reduction and have taken the initiative to organize ministerial conferences for disaster risk reduction. These conference have successfully brought together key stakeholders including governments, regional inter-governmental organizations, technical and scientific institutions involved in disaster risk reduction, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, donors and the media.

33. Regional Platforms “…UNISDR's regional offices serves as a supportive secretariat for regional platforms.” processes are gradually being institutionalized and represent unique regional opportunities for stakeholders to share experiences, plan, monitor progress and take collective strategic decision and action to enhance the implementation of disaster risk reduction along the Hyogo Framework for Action. the outcomes are used by national states, sub-regional organizations and development partners to align priorities and seek investment opportunities. benchmarks in the regions to monitor the implementation of the Hyogo Framework. The outcomes from regional platforms feed into the biennial Global Platform to support effective action to reduce disasters, to expand the political space devoted to the issue, and to contribute to the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action and disaster risk reduction activities globally.

34. European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR)Who established the EFDRR… EFDRR was established during the Meeting of European National |Platforms and HFA Focal Points, in November 2009 in London, UK, as a forum: to stimulate and facilitate the exchange of information and knowledge among participating National HFA Focal Points, National Platforms and regional / sub-regional partners; provide advocacy for effective action to reduce disasters, in particular by promoting and supporting the creation of new National Platforms; facilitate exchanges among European nations on the implementation of HFA and promoting inovative ideas in the field of DRR; create a safer Europe by reducing the impact of natural hazards to reduce vulnerability, and increasing the ability to minimize consequences of disasters. Created in December 1999, UNISDR is the secretariat of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR), with mandate is to serve as the focal point in the United Nations system for the coordination of disaster reduction and to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities. Created in 1987, the European and Mediterranean Major Hazards Agreement (EUR-OPA) is a platform for co-operation between European and Southern Mediterranean countries in the field of major natural and technological disasters. Its field of action covers the knowledge of hazards, risk prevention, risk management, post-crisis analysis and rehabilitation.

35. Who is part of the European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR) The EFDRR includes: HFA Focal Points and representatives of NPs in the European region, UNISDR-Europe, Regional organizations and sub-regional organizations/institutions as agreed by the forum: Council of Europe (CoE) – EUR-OPA Major Hazards Agreement European Commission / European Union (EC/EU) The Disaster Preparedness and Prevention Initiative for South-Eastern Europe (DPPI SEE) The Regional Cooperation Council A European Network of National Platforms

36. How theEuropean Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction Functions - Five basic principles: Bottom-up and participatory approach, Building on Existing institutions / organizations, Avoiding the creation of bureaucratic layers and rigid structures, Not existing as a political forum, Meting on an annual basis: 1st annual meeting of the EFDRR – Gothenburg, Sweden (06-08 October 2010) 2nd annual meeting of the EFDRR - Skopje, Macedonia (10-13 October 2011)

37. How theEuropean Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction Functions - Organizational structure: Chair and Co-chair Swedish Emergency Management Agency, Chair of the EFDRR (2009-10) Macedonian National Platform, Chair of the EFDRR (2010-11) Steering Group (Chair, Co-chair, UNISDR-Regional Coordinator, EUR-OPA Executive Secretary) “Friends of the Chair” Working groups Sub-regional organizations

38. European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction - Priorities: Support the development of national platforms as multi-stakeholder structures Support the implementation of the HFA Facilitate the link between climate change adaptation (CCA) and DRR Share good practices and lessons learnt from European countries, sub-regions and local level Enhance information sharing and exchange between existing national platforms and focal points Promote exchange of experiences and dialogue between regions Share information about the activities of other international/regional organizations and EU in the field of DRR Prepare for the Global Platform sessions

39. European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction - Focus areas and activities: Adaptation to Climate Change and extreme weather events Critical infrastructures safety (such as hospitals and schools) Local level / Community level approach Safety level standards Development of integrated risk assessment methodologies and procedures Harmonize risk mapping and assessments including data collection

40. National Platforms National Platforms are nationally owned and led multi-stakeholder forum or committee working on disaster risk reduction. They reflect the commitment of its government to implement national and local disaster risk reduction activities while linking up to international efforts. Guidelines for National platforms for disaster risk reduction introduce national platforms as a coordination mechanism which need to be built through a nationally-owned and led participatory process that includes different sectors’ perspectives and actions, and a multi-stakeholder composition, in order to be effective and sustainable. It advocates for national platforms to be embedded in the broader national systems for disaster reduction and development, as their influence on national development and resource mobilization depends on their effective integration into the existing governance, decision-making and institutional frameworks. National participation is the primary ingredient for regional and international cooperation and is critical for implementing disaster risk reduction policies and measures at the local scale. National Platforms (NP) builds on existing systems relevant to disaster risk reduction and include representatives from all stakeholders involved, such as government, international organizations, NGOs, academic institutions, the private sector and the media.

41. National Platforms “National Platforms represent a shift in focus from emergency response to risk reduction...” National Platforms coordinate the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) and serve as the coordinating mechanism for mainstreaming disaster risk reduction into development policies, planning and programmes. A single 'blueprint' approach for National Platforms is neither possible nor desirable since disaster risk reduction is a country-specific long-term process. General principles on how to form, run and sustain National Platforms are outlined in the UNISDR document Guidelines for National Platforms for Disaster Risk Reduction, but National Platforms essentially decide on how to organize and run themselves according to local needs. UNISDR supports National Platforms by collaborating on resource mobilization for DRR at the national level, serving as the networking hub and liaison between different DRR stakeholders, facilitating country-level implementation of the HFA, advising on how to establish National Platforms, fostering dialogue between different National Platforms regionally and internationally, and lobbying regional and international organizations to establish and strengthen National Platforms in countries where they have offices.

42. National Platforms A National Platform for DRR can be defined as a nationally owned and led forum or committee of multi-stakeholders. National Platform serves as an advocate of DRR at different levels and provides : coordination, analysis, advice on areas of priority requiring concerted action through a coordinated and participatory process. A National Platform for DRR should be the coordination mechanism for mainstreaming DRR into development: policies, planning, programmes in line with the implementation of the HFA. National Platform should aim to contribute to the establishment and the development of a comprehensive national DRR system, as appropriate to each country.

43. National Platforms National Ownership & Leadership National Platforms for DRR demonstrate strong national ownership and leadership of the DRR process, based on a shared understanding of DRR with its multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary nature. National Platforms are active in promoting DRR, policy development, capacity development, raising public awareness and advocating the integration of DRR into development activities such as poverty reduction, education, health, environment, disaster management, and etc. Good practices emphasize that dynamic National Platforms for DRR should help develop broader national systems for DRR and sustainable development. Their influence on national development and resource mobilization will depend on their capabilities to provide inputs and advices to policy and decision makers in developing institutional frameworks for the integration of disaster risk reduction in various development sectors that either create or reduce vulnerability to natural hazards.

44. National Platforms The focuss National Platforms for DRR need to focus on the following components: The political component ensures strong political commitment from the top leadership. The technical component involves various activities such as developing knowledge bases on DRR, a methodological framework for the National Platform for DRR, and a set of disaster reduction indicators. The participatory component involves relevant groups, including various overnment bodies, the private sector, NGOs and academic institutions. The resource mobilization component obtains resources required for developing National Platforms for DRR and carrying out their planned tasks.

45. Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (established 2009)

46. Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

47. Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

48. Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

49. Macedonian National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

50. Understanding Disaster Risk Reduction as a lifestyle… “ By supporting development based on moral judgment, knowledge, resilience, prevention and adaptation, we are jointly building a future that will not need an Ark to endure the days of the flood. Still, we need to plan ahead. After all, it was not raining when Noah built his Ark.” Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, President of the Republic of Macedonia