Disaster Risk Reduction in Central Asia
Building partnerships to secure development gains
October - december / 2009
In this issue:
Regional Consultative Meeting of disaster risk reduction partners
Fourth International ECO Conference on disaster risk management
Central Asia and Caucasus Disaster Risk Management Initiative ” Dear Readers
Since 2003, the European Commission Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO), has been supporting Disaster Preparedness in Central Asia through five DIPECHO programmes in the region so far. To date, more than €20 million have been disbursed to enhance preparedness measures.
Due to the success of the programme and the requirements still to be covered, ECHO decided to allocate a further €7.295 million for the 6th Central Asia DIPECHO programme to be implemented during the period April 2010- September 2011.
This latest decision will continue to fund local disaster management at community level and coordination mechanisms at local, national and regional levels. It will still include awareness-raising among the general public, training and education, early warning/intervention systems, exchange of know-how and capacity building, mitigation works and stock-building of emergency and relief items.
Despite the progress and the achievements over the past years, DIPECHO remains a relatively small programme; its success relies not only on the quality of work done by ECHO's partners, but also on the engagement of governments and local communities. Without a strong ownership by the people most directly concerned, our efforts will not be sustainable.
DIPECHO interventions are designed to be pilot operations. They are not and cannot be the sole solution to the challenges of disaster risk reduction. At their core, these DIPECHO projects demonstrate what could usefully be done, and how best to do it. Therefore, to become truly successful, the DIPECHO approach needs to be mainstreamed into local, national and regional policies. Cooperation with governmental actors in the region is of particular importance in this regard.
In this context, the publication of this magazine is very relevant as it provides considerable updated information on Disaster Risk Reduction in the region. Additionally, it also contributes to strengthening partnerships and to mobilising resources for regional DRR operations.
All in all, this will contribute to making us more efficient and better prepared to build a safer and more resilient environment in Central Asia.
Finally, I would like to thank all the DIPECHO partners who have actively contributed to the preparation of this issue by sharing their know-how with us.
Steffen Stenberg Operational director DG ECHO
2 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 Table of content
• Second Regional Consultative Meeting for Disaster Risk Reduction in Central Asia ...... 4
• Central Asia and Caucasus Disaster Risk Management Initiative ...... 8
• Safer communities ...... 12
• Schools and communities prepared for emergencies ...... 14
• Acting together for disaster resilience ...... 15
• Mountain communities and natural disasters ...... 17
• Fourth International ECO Conference on disaster risk management ...... 18
• Natural disasters and climate change in Tajikistan ...... 22
• UNISDR CA publications in 2009 ...... 25
• International Day for Disaster Reduction ...... 26
• International news ...... 28
• Regional news ...... 31
• Calendar of events ...... 34
“Disaster Risk Reduction in The e-version of the bulletin is UNISDR Sub-regional Office in Central Asia” is a quarterly available at: Central Asia, 37/1 Bokhtar str. Business Center “Vefa” information bulletin issued by www.preventionweb.net the International Strategy for Dushanbe , Tajikistan Disaster Reduction in Central Distributed free of charge. Asia. The bulletin is produced Please, send all your comments with the financial support of and feedback about the bulletin the European Commission's The contents of the bulletin is to: Humanitarian Aid Department the responsibility of the editorial Zafar Mahmoudov, (ECHO) within the DIPECHO board and do not necessarily Advocacy Consultant at UNISDR program. reflect the views of UNISDR and [email protected] ECHO.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 3 Second Regional Consultative Meeting for Disaster Risk Reduction in Central Asia
The second regional consultative range of stakeholders contributed meeting of partners under the to establishment of a meaningful Disaster Preparedness Program dialogue, exchange of information funded by the European Commission and experience and stregnthening of (DIPECHO) in Central Asia was held regional cooperation. on 18-19 November, 2009 in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan). The event was organized In his opening address, Norbert Jousten, upon the initiative of Central Asian Head of the European Delegation in Office of the European Commission Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan Directorate General for Humanitarian pointed out: “the countries of the Aid (ECHO) and the Ministry of region are prone to various natural Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz disasters that undermine economies Republic with support from the United of the republics and bring down their Nations Development Program (UNDP) development capacity. The European in Kyrgyzstan. Commission provides assistance within its powers to Central Asia to respond The conference was attended by to natural disasters and for their representatives of Ministries and timely prevention”. Committees for Emergency Situations of the Central Asian countries, The Emergency Situations Minister researchers and experts in disaster of Kyrgyzstan, Kamchibek Tashiev risk reduction as well as officers of indicated that “the DIPECHO program the UN agencies and international constitutes a unique platform for organizations and staff of local taking important decisions regarding non-governmental organizations response to and prevention of from all the five republics of the natural and man-made disasters region. Involvement of such a wide in the republic. The main focus
4 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 EUROPEAN COMMISSION EUROPEAN COMMISSION Directorate - General for Humanitarian Aid (ECHO)
Humanitarian Aid Central Asia Office GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION OF DIPECHO PROGRAMME IN CENTRAL ASIA
Brussels
Astana
K A Z U A Z K T B H U
E S Turkmenbashi R Dashoguz K T Balkanabad K M A Gyzylarbat I E N
N Kazakhstan S ASHGABAT I T Uzbekistan S
Bukhara Navoi Tajikistan T A Syrdarya BISHKEK K A TASHKENT Mary Samarkand Y ALMATY Turkmenistan Khujand R G Issyk-Kul Turkmenabad N N Jalal-Abad Y Fergana Z Kyrgyzstan S Andijan Karasu T Batken Osh A Regions/Cities where DIPECHO Programme is being Karshi DUSHANBE Garm N implemented Kurgan-Tyube TA J I K Financial vector of Funds from EC towards Central Asia I S T Khorog A N Coordination of DIPECHO Programme in Central Asia under supervision of ECHO Central Asia The present map was designed by European Commission Delimitation among Central Asian countries and Humanitarian Aid DG ( ECHO) in Central Asia the EU Dushanbe, 2007 © ECHO Central Asia
of the program is aimed at the addressing the meeting participants southern districts which are the most said: “... success of DIPECHO program vulnerable.” is contingent on the quality of work of all partners involved, including local “The DIPECHO program as distinct authorities. Different evaluations of from projects of many other work done under DIPECHO emphasize organizations brings tangible practical that the program is rather dynamic results. We are happy to cooperate but they also indicate the need to with that program and express our improve its review process”. gratitude to ECHO for their invariable support” – he added. Mr.Talaibek Temiraliev (Head of International Relations and Investment To-date a certain progress has been Department under the Ministry of made in the countries of the region Emergencies of Kyrgyzstan) indicated with regard to coordination of that the consultative meeting was activities carried out by different of vital importance for the entire organizations involved in disaster risk Central Asian region. He also reminded reduction. And although the number the participants that the event was of natural disasters in the region has organized as a follow-up to the first been rising the measures taken by regional meeting of DIPECHO partners DIPECHO partners promote disaster which took place in Dushanbe in 2007. resilience of the most vulnerable “The results of our work will form communities living in high-risk areas. the basis for all partners that will be Martin Landgraf, Assistant to the involved in disaster risk reduction Operational Director of ECHO, activities in the region in the two years to come” – he said.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 5 DIpecho regional partners' meeting
Janna Salieva representing IOM in Kyrgyzstan, made a presentation on the contribution of DIPECHO V program in disaster risk reduction in Kyrgyzstan. Most of the projects were implemented in the south of the country where communities are exposed to various hazards. All project activities are coordinated with the MoES to avoid duplication of activities. “DIPECHO program is in line with the Country Development Strategy for 2009-2011. The key expected outcome is ensuring safety of population, improvement of performance of the monitoring, forecasting and early warning system” - she added. Describing the situation with the implementation of Hyogo Framework for Action in the region Goulsara Pulatova, Head of UNISDR sub-regional office for Central Asia, informed the participants that “... all countries of the region except Turkmenistan signed HFA and have developed national Thierry Bertouille, ECHO Desk Officer disaster risk reduction strategies. for Central Asia, indicated: “the 6th Tajikistan is also currently finalizing its Central Asian DIPECHO programme DRM strategy.” will pay a particular attention to A separate session of the meeting the following topics: coordination was devoted to activities of mechanisms, advocacy of public- national disaster risk reduction private partnership, cross-cutting platforms in countries of the issue, integration of climate change region. Representatives of official into DRR operations and mainstreaming government agencies for disaster DRR in development actions.” management from Kazakhstan, During thematic and plenary sessions Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan presentations were made about the and Uzbekistan shared with the role of DIPECHO in Central Asia and participants information about implementation of priorities set forth development of national platforms, in the Hyogo Framework for Action. corresponding legislation and other disaster preparedness and response Madina Aliberdyeva, an OXFAM mechanisms in their respective representative, explained that countries. DIPECHO V program was instrumental in defining disaster risk reduction Thus, for example, a representative of priorities, improving communities' the Ministry for Emergency Situations awareness about the existing and Defense of the Republic of hazards, establishing rural emergency Uzbekistan reported that “... there management bodies, disaster is a program in place in Uzbekistan preparedness and response teams aimed at establishment of regional and volunteer rescue groups. Besides, and local communication and warning DIPECHO V program contributed to systems for the eventuality of a development of coordination with pending or developing emergency. government agencies in the sphere of There is also a program for provision emergency response.” of modern search-and-rescue
6 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 DIpecho regional partners' meeting
equipment and gear and construction such as the existing gaps in disaster of training facilities in the Rescuers' risk management in the region, link Development and Professional with climate change and adaptation Upgrading Center under the MoES”. thereto, introduction of disaster risk reduction in development planning Syrym Gabbasov, director of the and risk assessment. department for strategic planning, information and analytical work, The Conference provided its science and new technologies participants an excellent opportunity under the MoES of Kazakhstan gave to have an overview of results a presentation on the Kazakhstan achieved within DIPECHO program, Concept for prevention of and define priority areas and develop response to man-made and natural recommendations for the new 6th disasters that was approved by the Dipecho programme which will begin President of the country. its operations in April 2010. During the meeting, participants also discussed some other subjects
Overview of recommendations • mainstreaming disaster risk network taking into account the reduction in Government social economic specificity of strategy as an important each country. approach to scale up the implementation of the main • to scale-up and to improve goals of the Hyogo Framework the coordination of all for Action for building the stakeholders involved in DRR resilience of the population at and cross border projects. all levels An experts regional working group should be established • to set-up a regional working in order to assess existing group with various experts coordination mechanisms in from different sectors of DRR in Central Asian States activities in order to work on (at the local, national, and the intervention of public and regional levels) and to formulate private partnership and to recommendations deliver practical outputs for Central Asia. • to promote the use of education and knowledge as vector to • to work out concrete create awareness and build the approaches on how to address resilience of the population climate change adaptation exposed to natural hazards in DRR through studies and the establishment of experts
DIPECHO aid for Central Asia in figures From 2003 to 2009, the total amount of assistance provided to Central Asian countries constituted Euro 22.3 million (i.e. about 3,2 million per year). The total number of DIPECHO beneficiaries exceeded 3.65 million persons (with 2 million in Tajikistan alone). More than 1.2 thousand rescue teams were trained (700 of them in Tajikistan) and over 1,850 training events were organized in schools (700 of them in Tajikistan). DIPECHO program also funded implementation of 300 practical projects for disaster risk reduction (220 of those in Tajikistan).
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 7 Cac drm initiative
Central Asia and Caucasus Disaster Risk Management Initiative
Why it is important for our damages particularly impacting regions the rural economy. The region is The region of Central Asia and the also exposed to a range a man- Caucasus (CAC) is highly vulnerable made disasters, such as industrial to natural disasters. Occurrence accidents, hazardous mine tailings of natural hazards in all eight entering downstream water bodies, countries of the two sub-regions is and potential downstream impacts very high – substantial parts of the resulting from the operation of territory are covered by mountains large water reservoirs. and practically all natural hazards, such as earthquakes, landslides, Both regions have limited debris flows, avalanches, floods financial resources and physical and droughts are present there. resilience. Central Asia and Earthquakes are the most Caucasus governments are dangerous of them. They destroy fiscally unprepared to deal with buildings and infrastructure and result in secondary events such as landslides, rock-falls, and avalanches. The region can provide compelling evidence for this: destructive earthquakes in Almaty (Kazakhstan, 1887, 1911), Ashgabat (Turkmenistan, 1948), Baku (Azerbaijan, 2000), Spitak (Armenia, 1989) and Tashkent (Uzbekistan, 1966), as well as a relatively smaller earthquakes such as in Gissar (Tajikistan, 1989) when most of casualties were caused by landslides, debris flows and rock- falls. In all probability, devastating earthquakes can be expected in any of the Region’s countries in the future.
Climate change is expected to exacerbate natural disasters caused by hydro-meteorological conditions, with associated Spitak, after the earthquake in 1989. Photo: RIA News Agency
8 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 Cac drm initiative
catastrophic losses as a result of possible natural disasters. Disasters lead to social, economic and environmental losses.
Disasters tend to hit the poorest in the society most. This group has little or no financial and physical resilience, and therefore, has to struggle to rebuild their lives, livelihoods and assets in the aftermath of a disaster.
Global Trends The frequency and impact of disasters have been rising dramatically worldwide since the early twentieth century, and with a more than 800 per cent increase However, there seems to be a A meteostation on Fedchenko glacier. over the last 40 years. Various Photo: Tajikglavgidromet gradual shift from solely disaster studies underline the fact that response to investing in disaster disasters erode gains from poverty risk reduction. All eight countries reduction and socio-economic of the region participated in the development. Second World Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held in This trend can also be observed in Kobe, Hyogo, Japan, in January Central Asia and the Caucasus and 2005 and committed to take on the therefore disaster risk reduction priorities of action outlined in the must be seen as a key component Hyogo Framework for Action. The of development strategies in these HFA and a 10-year plan to make countries. Moreover the on-going the world safer from the impact of climate change excacerbates the natural hazards were adopted by situation. 168 governments. Disaster response has traditionally Main goals and objectives: been stronger in the countries Within the context of the Global of the former Soviet Union than Facility for Disaster Risk Reduction disaster risk reduction. Of most (GFDRR), the World Bank and the importance today is the issue UNISDR Secretariat in collaboration of monitoring, forecasting and with international partners early-warning of natural and man- initiated a Central Asia and made disasters. Unfortunately, Caucasus Disaster Risk Management preventive measures still do not Initiative (CAC DRMI), which have the appropriate importance incorporates three focus areas: for many countries that still follow response oriented disaster (i) coordination of disaster reduction mechanisms. mitigation, preparedness, and response;
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 9 Cac drm initiative
(ii) financing of disaster losses, The Initiative builds on the level of reconstruction and recovery, and cooperation that already exists in disaster risk transfer instruments the region, and will complement such as catastrophe insurance and and consolidate activities of the weather derivatives, and international finance institutions (IFIs) to promote more effective (iii) hydro-meteorological disaster mitigation, preparedness forecasting, data sharing and early and response. warning. Key Activities This Initiative can form the The CAC Disaster Risk Management foundation for regional and country Initiative includes three main specific investment priorities in the components as per below. area of early warning, disaster risk reduction and financing. Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness and Response Partners The objective of this component The initiative is coordinated by the is to strengthen the capacity and World Bank, the UN International promote a coordinated approach to Strategy for Disaster Reduction disaster preparedness and response (UNISDR) Secretariat, and (for in the countries of the region. Hydromet component) the World This work includes assessment of Meteorological Organization risks, vulnerability and existing (WMO), under the CAREC umbrella. capacities as well as identification It is financed by the Global of needs and promotion of Facility for Disaster Reduction cooperation. and Recovery (GFDRR) and other interested donors. As of today, a Risk Assessment Fighting avalanches, Kyrgyzstan. Desk Review has already been Photo: MoES, Kyrgyzstan completed to provide a simplified quantitative risk assessment and determine the social and economic loss potentials and the likelihood of occurrence of different hazards at country and regional levels.
Disaster Financing and Risk Transfer The objectives of this component is to assist the Region’s countries in developing disaster risk financing and risk transfer mechanisms to reduce the burden on government budgets and on the population’s assets, and promote the development of affordable insurance to cover losses. A particular focus will be placed on identification and development
10 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 Cac drm initiative
of key measures for the protection weather, climate and hydrological of population’s assets, especially in service delivery and reducing rural areas The insurance system, vulnerability to disasters in guaranteed and supported by Central Asia and Caucasus” took strong legislation would eventually place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, contribute to the reduction of with over 100 participants from vulnerability and thus to poverty eight countries of the CAC reduction. region and numerous national, international and government A Disaster Risk Financing Options and donor organizations. The Study was completed in 2009. findings and recommendations The study included an assessment of the donor workshop will allow of current practices to finance the development of the Central damages, the state of the current Asia and Caucasus Disaster Risk private insurance market in providing Management Programme. catastrophe insurance, and the viability of creating a regional disaster insurance mechanism through risk pooling. WMO and natural hazards Hydrometeorological service Natural hazards are severe and The objective of the component is extreme weather and climate events to strengthen hydromet services, that occur naturally in all parts of data sharing and early warning the world, although some regions are system. This will be achieved more vulnerable to certain hazards through undertaking feasibility than others. Natural hazards become assessment of the existing data natural disasters when people’s lives and livelihoods are destroyed. Human sharing procedures and identifying and material losses caused by natural the needs, both in capacity terms as disasters are a major obstacle to well as equipment. The focus will be sustainable development. By issuing placed on identifying the economic accurate forecasts and warnings in a benefits that could be achieved by an form that is readily understood and by enhancement in weather forecasting. educating people how to prepare against Once this is completed, investments such hazards, before they become priorities can be identified, to enable disasters, lives and property can be the establishment of modern and protected. coordinated weather forecasting in Natural hazards occur across different time and area scales Central Asia and Caucasus. and each is in some way unique. Tornadoes and flash floods are short-lived, violent events, affecting a relatively small area. The Hydromet Regional Assessment Others, such as droughts, develop slowly, but can affect most of a took place in March-April 2009, continent and entire populations for months or even years. through a joint mission composed of WMO emphasis on disaster risk reduction: one dollar invested specialists from UNISDR, WMO, the in disaster preparedness can prevent seven dollars’ worth of Finnish Meteorological Institute and disaster-related economic losses—a considerable return on the World Bank. investment.
Donor workshop in Tashkent WMO’s objective is to reduce by 50 per cent, by 2019, the On November 10-12, 2009, a donor associated 10-year average fatality of the period 1994-2003 for weather-, climate- and water-related natural disasters. workshop entitled “Improving
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 11 activities of dipecho partners
A team of volunteer rescuers comprising 10-12 persons was established in each Safer communities public center of the above jamoats. Establishment of these teams has become Local communities are most vulnerable possible due to the support from leaders to various natural disasters. At present, and workers of the jamoats as well as many residents of remote communities local staff of the Emergency Committee. do not have sufficient information about The volunteer team members are local the hazards threatening their area and do community residents, professionals in not have even basic skills and knowledge different fields and heads of dehkan required to ensure effective response to farms. Whenever an emergency strikes, natural disasters. Often enough, villages the groups and coordinators come have no emergency response plans and under the command of the emergency first aid equipment. authorities within the local executive bodies. In October 2008, the Youth Environmental Center with support from Act Central Asia The established volunteer teams are and within the framework of DIPECHO-V responsible for specific actions related to project funded by the European emergency response as well as continuous Commission launched its emergency monitoring of emergency risks at the local preparedness and response program. The level. The volunteer team in Nosiri Khisrav main goal of the project was to establish district has already received the first 4 emergency coordination centers and experience of participation in a mudflow organize training of 6 volunteer rapid response operation which took place response and rescue teams. in May 2009 in Firuza jamoat of Nosiri Khisrav district. During the period of the project implementation, the Youth Environmental Within the framework of its project Center established four public centers the Youth Environmental Center signed in Aivaj and Sayed jamoats of Shaartuz a memorandum of cooperation with district, Komsomol jamoat of Nosiri the State Committee for Emergencies Khisrav district and Nosiri Khisrav jamoat and Civil Defense according to which of Kabodiyon district. All the centers were the Committee experts trained the provided with the tools and equipment established volunteer teams and necessary to respond to emergencies and conducted emergency response drills Progress of mitigation activities Photo: Youth Ecological Centre administer first medical aid. for them to strengthen their capacity in organization and implementation of rescue work. Local emergency response plans and maps of risk zones were also developed with support from the Emergency Committee staff.
Another project component was aimed at carrying out practical activities to reduce disaster risks and mitigate disaster consequences in areas most prone to natural disasters. Three bridges were repaired in conjunction with the newly established coordination centers and with immediate support from local authorities of Shaartuz, Nosiri Khisrav and Kabodiyon districts. In Kabodiyon district, mudflow flumes were rehabilitated and banks of Chilu Chor Chashma canal were reinforced. The ground water control systems was cleaned up in Shaartuz district and 2 nurseries for fast-growing trees were established to restore windbreak belts in the area.
12 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 activities of dipecho partners
Learning to reduce risks of natural disasters
Caritas-Switzerland continues implementation of the second phase of its Project for disaster risk management in Muminobad district of Khatlon region of Tajikistan. The project supported by the Swiss Development and Cooperation Agency is aimed at promotion and development of cooperation between concerned government authorities and civil society institutions. Innovative risk assessment tools and methods of integration of disaster risk reduction in overall management system are to be introduced under the project. Completion of the second stage of the project is envisaged in March 2010.
The main goal of the project is reduction of risks of natural disasters in communities through introduction of integrated risk management. Caritas-Switzerland is rendering significant support in capacity building of local administrations, civil society institutes and population in general which should ultimately contribute to sustainable development of the district and improvement of safety.
The geographic location of Muminobod district is rather typical. The situation in terms of natural disasters is closely related to environmental conditions and affects negatively local community development. Deforestation, excessive land use and overgrazing on watersheds play a major role in destabilization of the environment. The most vulnerable groups of society are directly dependent on access to ecosystems and their services. This is why natural disaster management requires an integrated approach that is not limited just to overcoming the emerging hazards and their impacts. Despite the apparently growing awareness of population and local government authorities in risk zones, their weak financial resources are still insufficient to address the problems on the required scale.
This is why the main objectives of the project comprise:
• Development of a disaster risk management plan and its incorporation in the district (Muminobod) development strategy;
• Capacity building of the local administration, private sector and civil society to combat natural disasters;
• Reduction of soil erosion through integrated watershed management;
• Introduction of the risk assessment tool at the regional and national level. The tool can be used to assess natural risks by different NGO's and the Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense.
Detailed information at: www.caritas.ch
The contribution of the local community resources and natural disasters we and government bodies in these activities conduct training workshops, introduce constituted 40% of the total expenditures. modern soil management practices, promote development of local businesses, To ensure sustainability of the established introduce equipment using renewable volunteer rescue teams and centers the energy sources and create seed stocks” - Youth Environmental Center is focusing says Rahim Obidov, project manager and on integration of disaster risk reduction coordinator of the emergency program of issues in programs aimed at community the Youth Environmental Center. development and improvement of living standards of the local population. For more detailed information please “Being aware of the direct relationship refer to: www.ecocentre.tj between the rational use of natural
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 13 activities of dipecho partners
Schools and communities prepared for emergencies
works in each category were submitted to the all-country stage of the contest.
NRCST developed, adapted and translated into the Turkmen language a whole series of training manuals and modules for training workshops. Information and education materials were disseminated to the target groups of the project. Consultations in disaster risk reduction issues were organized for non-governmental organizations, officials and other stakeholders. The developed printed matter and information posters issued under the program proved to be a success both with population and local governments.
Action plans for emergency preparedness and response were updated in selected Training for volunteer rescuers The National Red Crescent Society of local communities. 96 volunteer rescue Photo: NRCST Turkmenistan with the support from the teams were established. Its members took European Commission Directorate General part in respective workshops where they for Humanitarian Aid and in conjunction were trained in correct rules of behavior with the Netherlands Red Cross has been before, during and after earthquakes engaged for one and a half years in work and also in provision of paramedical first aimed at reducing the impact of natural aid (including psychological counseling). disasters on vulnerable population under Upon completion of the workshops DIPECHO-V program. The main goal of the teams took part in first aid and the project was to reduce vulnerability emergency response competitions that of population through training of local were organized throughout the country. organizations and communities living in Thereafter the winning teams participated high risk zones to respond adequately in the national competitions conducted to emergency situations. The project in the capital of Turkmenistan. The team implemented by the Red Crescent Society that won the national competition went of Turkmenistan (NRCST) covered virtually to the regional competition held in late all regions of the republic. September in Tajikistan.
The primary objective of the project was Training courses in emergency to conduct educational and information preparedness and response were also campaigns to build awareness about rules conducted for oil and construction of behaviour during emergencies and companies. The training workshops first aid techniques. Thus, workshops on involved participation of experts from disaster risk reduction were organized concerned government agencies and for students and teachers. Forty eight NRCST trainers. first aid teams (10 persons in each) were established. Drawing and essay contests were held for students under the motto A particular focus was also given to “Your life is in your own hands”. The capacity building of staff and volunteers constest winners were awarded prizes and of the National Red Crescent Society certificates of appreciation whereas 6 best itself. The project staff took part in the
14 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 activities of dipecho partners
first aid training workshop held in Bishkek EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE COMPETITIONS and received standard international certificates. NRCST itself took vigorous Emergency preparedness and response team steps to improve its monitoring system of the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan and transparency of its activities. The (RCST) won the second place at the regional existing database of volunteers and teams competition which took place on 25- trainers was updated. Three regional 26 September 2009 within the framework workshops and visits to cross-border of the project “Strengthening Capacities of the Communities and Schools for Emergency areas of neighboring countries involving Preparedness and Response in Central Asia”. participation of NRCST volunteers Turkmenistan team won the first place. and staff were organized to exchange experience, methodologies and training Representatives from regional materials. administration bodies, regional department of the Committee for Emergency Situations, as well as REACT member partners from Sughd Oblast participated in the opening ceremony. The The project “Emergency preparedness of competition revealed the level of theoretical knowledge and practical schools and communities in Turkmenistan” skills of the participants on rendering first aid, the teams’ skills on was implemented with active involvement performing under extreme conditions and their ability to reduce of government authorities, school the possible risks during natural disasters. Upon completion of the administrations and local population. competition, the participants were awarded valuable prizes. It was this kind of involvement of all Funded by the European Commission Humanitarian Office (ECHO), the stakeholders that formed the basis for Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan (RSCT) and the Netherlands Red Cross achieving successful and fruitful results. jointly implement the fifth phase of the programme on strengthening the capacities of communities and schools for emergency preparedness and response in Central Asia (DIPECHO-V) in Sughd Oblast. The project is Timur Idrisov, implemented in 8 districts and Khujand city, in 48 Jamoats and 118 schools based on NRCS Turkmenistan materials covering 8,850 schoolchildren.
Source: Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan
Acting together for disaster resilience
Improvement of civil defense Central Civil Defense Training Facility training courses under the Ministry of under the MoES of KR within the Emergencies of the Kyrgyz Republic. framework of DIPECHO-V program and To facilitate the study of issues pertaining with financial support from the Swiss to emergency management in Kyrgyzstan Cooperation Office. IOM equipped the there was a pressing need to establish training facility with modern technical an integrated training center that would aids which are in conformity with provide training and consultative services, international standards and also provided conduct studies and prepare respective it with the necessary reference, didactic publications. and methodological materials and manuals.
The center would work with non- governmental organizations, communities Students of the training center have and government agencies in different received additional opportunities of regions to strengthen their capacity in learning the basics of natural disaster disaster preparedness and mitigation of preparedness, emergency response, first emergency situations. aid skills, protection and saving of human lives. Access to the services provided by the center is granted to international To address this issue the mission of the organizations, non-govermental agencies International Organization for Migration and other partners wishing to take part (IOM) in the Kyrgyz Republic implemented in and conduct training workshops in the the project for modernization of the sphere of emergency preparedness.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 15 activities of dipecho partners
of coordination between the Ministry of Emergency Situations, academic institutions and other interested agencies working in the sphere of response to and prevention of emergency situations of natural and man-made origin. Responsibilities of the Scientific and Technical Council comprise:
• improving the mechanism of coordination between the Ministry of Emergency Situations, academic institutions and other interested agencies working in the sphere of response to and prevention of emergency situations of natural and man-made origin; • hearing and review of scientific and Civic defense courses technical recommendations made at MoES, Kyrgyzstan by relevant governmental academic Photo: IOM Cooperation with NGOs that are members of the IOM network institutions and other outsourced organization on issues pertaining The non-governmental sector of to prevention of and response to Kyrgyzstan has been actively developing emergency situations of natural and and has become a tangible public man-made origin; force and an important resource. Ever from the beginning of its activities in • participation in organization and Kyrgyzstan IOM has focused on support implementation of joint scientific and to non-governmental organizations technical studies aimed at protection of through training programs to develop territories, prevention of environmental NGO capacity and also through promotion accidents including those of of intersectoral interaction and transboundary nature with involvement granting support to NGOs for project of interested stakeholders; implementation in various areas. • promotion of cooperation and interaction with international Non-governmental organizations play a organizations, financial institutions and key role in IOM activities. Specifically, donor-countries working on issues of the information campaign in communities emergency management. within DIPECHO projects is implemented by partner-NGOs. The NGOs conduct various information campaigns on emergency preparedness, organize workshops and training events for local community activists, university and secondary school teachers, representatives of government authorities and local self-governance bodies. At present, the NGO network comprises 35 permanent members and covers all regions of the republic.
Establishment of a coodination mechanism between MoES and academic institutions in the sphere of emergency prevention and response With support from the IOM a scientific First aid training and technical council was established in Photo: IОМ Kyrgyzstan to improve the mechanism
16 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 activities of dipecho partners
Mountain communities and natural disasters
authorities and CoES staff in the area of emergency assessment, monitoring and response, FOCUS experts organized specialized training workshops that were attended by 120 people. A specialized training course in hazard, vulnerability and risk assessment was organized with the purpose of professional development of geologists and other scientific workers. Within the framework of an information campaign to build population awareness about hazards and disaster risk reduction measures in GBAO, FOCUS disseminated over 5,300 booklets and brochures. The materials were disseminated (based on a Focus Humanitarian Assistance (FOCUS) preliminary agreement) through 8 local is an international agency working in the offices and service centers of Indigo sphere of emergency response and natural mobile operator. Moreover, FOCUS has disaster risk reduction. actively cooperated with mass media. Under DIPECHO-V program, FOCUS Thus, about 1,500 copies of booklets Humanitarian Assistance successfully on Emergency Preparedness were completed its Project for Training disseminated through local newspapers of Disaster Resilient Communities in in GBAO, whereas the local TV channel in High Mountain Areas which received Khorog has shown the video film “Natural support from the European Commission disasters - ways to become aware and get Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid. prepared”. The project was aimed at building From the time of its establishment in awareness of disaster preparedness and Tajikistan in 1998, FOCUS has provided building capacity of local communities. assistance in 40 natural disasters and It was implemented with the goal of provided $US500,000 to the affected reducing vulnerability of communities and communities. FOCUS projects in building their capacity to withstand local education, planning and disaster risk hazards. reduction have covered about 100,000 41 local communities in Gorno-Badahshan people. Autonomous Region of Tajikistan and For more information please refer to: four frontier districts of Northern www.akdn.org/focus Afghanistan were covered by the project activities. FOCUS in conjunction with local authorities, divisions of the Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense (CoES) and with direct involvement of local population implemented 18 projects aimed at improvement of structural safety of infrastructure and establishment of new physical protection facilities including mudflow flumes, bank protection structures, etc. Over 5,000 children and teachers from 23 local schools in the districts covered by the project attended disaster preparedness workshops and training sessions. To strengthen capacity of local Bridge construction FOCUS Photo:
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 17 IV Eco conference
Fourth International ECO Conference on disaster risk management Disaster risk
The ECO region is highly vulnerable since all the countries located therein are prone to various disasters that significantly impede their economic development. This issue of natural disasters requires close attention and effective action. Heads of ECO member- states have repeatedly emphasized the need to promote regional cooperation in the field of disaster management.
In his opening remarks at the Conference the ECO Deputy Secretary General Ambassador Hassan Taherian, said that: “...the aim of holding such Conferences is to provide opportunity to share experiences, lessons learned and facilitate discussion regarding development of policy guidance on disaster risk reduction. This requires collective cooperation and The Fourth International ECO Conference comprehensive efforts of all countries of on Disaster Risk Management took At plennary sessions the ECO region.” Photo: N. Qalandarov place in early October in Dushanbe. The meeting was organized by the Disasters carry enormous destructive force Committee for Emergency Situations which can undermine the very basics and Civil Defense under the Government of development. Whenever a disaster of the Republic of Tajikistan, Economic occurs there is never enough funds for Cooperation Organization and United reconstruction and rehabilitation. This Nations International Strategy for Disaster is why investment in disaster prevention Reduction (UNISDR) with financial and mitigation must become an integral support from the European Commission part of emergency management. The Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid frequency of disasters is on the rise and (DG-ECHO) and ECO. therefore regional and international cooperation and support are of vital The Forum brought together delegates importance. from the Islamic State of Afghanistan, Islamic Republic of Iran, Republic of Salvano Briceno, Director of UNISDR Kazakhstan, Republic of Kyrgyzstan, Secretariat, indicated that involvement in Republic of Tajikistan and Republic of and support of the regional activities on Uzbekistan as well as representatives of the part of governments of ECO member- international and regional organizations states was becoming an essential factor in and UN agencies. implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action. “...there was a need to sustain The conference provided the participating and improve preparedness for effective experts an excellent opportunity to response and early warning capacities to discuss issues of disaster risk reduction in reach the communities. It is essential to the region as well as prospects of further continue working together to maintain development of cooperation and capacity the momentum and drive the global building. movement for disaster risk reduction towards a safer world” - emphasized Salvano Briceno.
18 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 IV Eco conference
Joint measures to address problems and decline and vulnerable rural livelihoods. overcome natural hazards Mr. Parveen Pradeshi, Head, Regional Coordination, UNISDR, Geneva, pointed The heads of country delegations out that: “...if these drivers are not presented at the conference the addressed, climate change will lead to institutional structure of disaster dramatic increases in disaster risk and management in their respective countries associated poverty outcomes in developing and shared the existing experiences in countries”. emergency response and disaster risk reduction measures. They reaffirmed their Risk reduction needs to be at the commitments to strengthen cooperation in centre of the political agenda, backed disaster management and highlighted the by dedicated resources in the national need to establish a regional Trust Fund for budget and leadership at the highest Disaster Risk Management. levels of government. Overarching policy frameworks should align efforts in poverty A number of regional initiatives were reduction, climate change adaptation and presented at the Conference. Thus, disaster risk reduction both nationally and Ms.Miki Kodama, a senior researcher internationally. This is why government– of the Asian Disaster Reduction Center civil society partnerships and cooperation (ADRC) told the participants about are essential to ensure sustainability, international activities of the Center relevance and impact on the ground. which was established in Kobe, Hyogo prefecture, in 1998. She informed the conference that ADRC was interested Tajikistan in providing support to disaster risk reduction activities in Central Asia. The State Commission for Emergencies which is the “Our Center would be happy to provide Supreme Coordinating programmes for further strengthening the Authority on issues pertaining disaster risk management capacity in ECO to disaster management has region” - Miki Kadama said. been established in Tajikistan. The commission identifies Mr. Sushil Gupta, General Manager, priorities in respective areas Risk Modeling and Insurance at Risk and coordinates distribution of Management Solutions Internationals funding allocated for disaster (RMSI), presented the findings and management activities. recommendations of Central Asia and Caucasus Disaster Risk Management The Committee for Emergencies Initiative (CACDRMI). The initiative came and Civil Defense of RT promotes coordination and cooperation with international, bilateral and local as a result of cooperation between Global organizations. Back in 2001, to streamline coordination of Facility for Disaster Risk Reduction, the emergency response the REACT group was established which World Bank and UNISDR, in partnership is headed by the Committee for Emergency Situations with with World Meteorological Organization. support from the UNDP Disaster Risk Management Program. The group comprises over 70 members representing “The key objective of this initiative was international and local organization working in the sphere to prepare a simplified quantitative risk of disaster management in the country. assessment to determine the social and economic loss potential and the likelihood Some progress has been achieved in Tajikistan in setting up of occurrence of different hazards on communication and early warning systems with assistance country, sub-regional and regional levels from international organizations and donors. A state of the with focus on natural and man-made art monitoring and early warning system installed on Lake Sarez and in downstream settlements is a good step towards hazards” - noted Mr.Gupta. reducing vulnerability of the population and improvement of the Committee’s monitoring capacity.
Climate change impact on risks and poverty These and some other important facts were presented by Major General Haibullo Latipov, Chairman of the Committee Disaster risk will only be reduced and the for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense of the Republic HFA achieved if countries successfully of Tajikistan. address the underlying drivers of risk, such as poor urban governance, ecosystem
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 19 IV Eco conference
Progress of Global Campaigns and year 2001. By 2004, assessment of all International Partner Initiatives schools in the country was completed.” He mentioned that since there is a great The Conference participants paid a concern regarding high risk of schools, all particular attention to the progress of member states should make the School international initiatives and campaigns Earthquake Safety Initiative a part of aimed at ensuring school and hospital their National DRR Programmes. “Iran is safety. ready to share its experience with other “Schools should be a safe haven for countries”, - added Mr. Mehdizadeh. children but we have seen schools that A safe hospital will not collapse in have turned into a devil trap for children. disasters and will continue to provide Thousands of children get killed as a services when they are most needed. result of natural disasters”- said Mr. Asim To ensure that our hospitals and health Rehman, Regional DRR Specialist, UNICEF. facilities are safe from disasters a strong “The subject of Disaster Risk Reduction commitment is needed from the highest should be included into school curriculum political level, as well as support and and specialized courses on disaster contribution from all sectors of society. risk reduction and preparedness should be developed. It is essential to ensure “Efforts are underway to include Disaster structural safety of school buildings, Preparedness and Risk Reduction into develop hazard maps and provide schools Health strategy for Tajikistan.” - reported with necessary equipment for emergency Ms. Khusniya Dordabekova, DIPECHO response” - he added. project coordinator from WHO. She mentioned that the Global Platform for Mr. Alireza Mehdizadeh, Head of Disaster Risk Reduction (Geneva, 2009) the Department for Retrofitting and recommended adopting comprehensive Mobilization of Schools of the Islamic national multi-sectoral Safe Hospital Republic of Iran, pointed out in his policies and programmes. presentation that “the process of ensuring school safety was started in Iran in the Based on results of the discussions the participants adopted a number of recommendations that will be circulated Afghanistan to governments of the ECO member- states and also respective agencies and institutions dealing with issues of Natural disasters such as hurricanes, heavy rains, floods, disaster risk reduction and emergency droughts and landslides are becoming more frequent and management. severe as a result of climate change. All initiatives aimed at addressing the problem of climate change and natural disasters must be community oriented. Poor and vulnerable Conference recommendations: groups of population are also the most exposed to negative impacts of climate change. 1. One of the ECO member states should be named as a focal point to It is essential to develop a global action plan to deal with ensure effective follow-up on the the problems related to climate change and disaster risk recommendations of the present reduction. Climate change adaptation means changes and previous ECO Conferences on in people’s livelihoods and the subject. natural ecosystems so that they could better cope with the 2. School safety must be ensured actual and expected impacts of by 2015 which is the end of HFA climate change. It would reduce implementation. By that time vulnerability, reduce potential Member States will try to have damages and help coping with the seismic assessment of all schools in consequences of natural disasters. the ECO region and also endeavour to retrofitting of these schools. Dr. Abdul Matin Adrak, Head of National Disaster Management 3. There is a need for allocation of Authority of Afghanistan. funding to develop a strategy for disaster prevention and recovery.
20 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 IV Eco conference
There is a need for allocation of budget for the national DRR plans. Kazakhstan
4. In the subsequent Conferences related to disaster risk “The National Platform for Disaster management, each member states’ Risk Reduction has been already experts from the planning and functioning in Kazakhstan. It has become the key authority budget sections may also be invited. for prevention and liquidation 5. Each Member State may consider of natural and technogenic allocating a special budget to emergencies as well as betterment tackle issues related to the climate of the state control system. The change. national platform was established with a special focus on provisions 6. Member States may have legal of the State System for Emergency negotiations to encourage member Prevention and Liquidation (SSEPL). states to improve implementation of Moreover, safety of citizens is one of the main priorities Hyogo Framework for Action of the long-term Development Strategy titled “Kazakhstan 2030”. 7. A draft strategy for regional cooperation on disaster risk There are also some difficulties. The system of National management may be prepared and Emergency Monitoring, including land-space control is circulated to Member States. insufficiently developed in the country which causes problems in early forecasting and detection of natural hazards as well 8. Member States may consider as taking timely measures for their liquidation.” establishing an ECO Fund for disaster risk management. - said Alexander Fedorenko, Head of Prevention Department, Ministry of Emergencies of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 9. Member States may consider becoming full members of INSARAG.
10. Donors may consider providing incentives for good progress Iran in implementation of Hyogo Framework for Action and disaster “According to global estimates, Iran is placed on the list of top ten countries facing disasters among the developing risk reduction in ECO countries countries. Iran was among the first countries to establish by way of allocation of additional an executive Secretariat to follow the implementation of funding. the HFA at a national level. Iran was also one of the first 11. The relevant National Offices of countries that created its national platform (DRNP) on Member States should collaborate disaster risk reduction back in February 2005. with concerned international This mechanism works under the supervision of the National agencies. Disaster Management Organization (NDMO) of the Ministry of 12. High level participation in the Interior. It is considered a multi- subsequent conferences related to sectoral National Platform, disaster risk management may be with designated responsibilities adhered to. at national and local level to 13. Member States should have seismic facilitate coordination between monitoring systems. different stakeholders.” - reported Mr. Hassan Azadeh, Shahodat Saibnazarova, Senior Expert, Executive Timur Idrisov Secretariat of the HFA and Iranian National Platform of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 21 climate change and natural disasters
Natural disasters and climate change in Tajikistan Carribean and South-East Asia. Drought and wildfires alternate with heavy rains and floods. The number of natural disasters is on the rise across the globe. Computer modeling shows that such cataclysms will continue to become more frequent and their consequencies will be coming at an increasingly high cost.
Based on the specific volume of carbon dioxide emissions Tajikistan is rated as 150th in the world, i.e. in the group of countries with the lowest level of greenhouse gas emissions. The volume of greenhouse gas emissions per capita is by an order of magnitude less than the average global figure and it has the lowest greenhouse gas emissions in the Central Asian region. At the same time, Tajikistan is one of the most vulnerable countries on the Eurasian continent with Subsidence of Fedchenko glacier, Pamirs Will there be more natural disasters in regard to the on-going climate changes. Photo: V. Novikov the future? Climate change is one of the most “Almost all climatic zones of the world important environmental problems. are present in Tajikistan. This is why The main cause of climate change is a particular attention is paid in the an increased volume of greenhouse gas republic to detailed climate studies” emissions in the atmosphere. During just - says Ilhom Rajabov, the head of a few decades the global greenhouse research center for climate change and gas emissions have increased by 70% ozone layer under the State Agency on whereas the concentration of one of Hidrometeorology of Tajikistan. the main gases, carbon dioxide has almost doubled. The principal source of Natural hydrometeorological greenhouse gas emissions is the energy phenomena in Tajikistan sector since most of the world community According to Ilhom Rajabov Tajikistan is demand for energy is met by burning already facing most serious consequences fossil fuels (oil, gas and coal). This in its of the global climate change. Experts turn produces emissions of millions of have noted active glacier melting, tons of greenhouse gases, and increase rising of average annual temperatures, of concentration of the latter in the variation of precipitation figures, more atmosphere is leading to a global climate frequent periods marked by extreme change. weather conditions (hail, snowfall, drought), and increase of natural Climate change has a significant disasters caused mostly by weather and impact not only on the main climatic climatic conditions. All of the above can characteristics but also on intensity significantly affect the state of natural of hazardous hydrometeorological resources, human health and overall phenomena. Researchers suggest economic development in Tajikistan. that the global warming will result in increased frequency and severity of In winter of 2007-2008, a sharp increase natural disasters. Hurricanes such as El in the number of snow avalanches Niño, Catrina and catastrophic storms was reported in the republic. Thus, are becoming ever more frequent in the for example, snow slides blocked the
22 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 climate change and natural disasters
Dushanbe-Khujand road, partly damaged Of the total 245 major disasters that occurred in 2009 the infrastructure and claimed several 224 originated as a result of extreme weather conditions. human lives. They affected 55 million people (the total number of people affected by disasters amounted to 55 million) Over the last few years, the number of and took the lives of 7,000 people (the total number of mudflows triggered by heavy rains has casualties being 8,900). The economic loss resulting from also increased. The floods in 2002, 2003 those disasters constituted USD 15 billion (with the total and 2005 on the Zeravshan river washed losses from disasters estimated at USD 19 billion). away houses, damaged roads and power transmission lines and caused human casualties. In 2002, there occurred a impacts as unregulated cattle grazing, glacial lake outburst flood in Roshtqala deforestation and inefficient agricultural district in the Pamir. A powerful flood practices may significantly intensify which ensued killed 25 people and caused soil erosion and degradation processes. significant material damages. The much hotter weather would lead to increased desertification and hence The drought of 2000-2001 in Tajikistan a drop in productivity of various crops. turned out to be the largest natural These combined effects can lead disaster of the last decade. The losses to catastrophic aftermaths in terms caused by it were estimated at tens of of agricultural development in the millions of US dollars. In summer and fall republic”- Ilhom Rajabov said. of 2007, there was almost no atmospheric precipitation on the entire territory Measures taken of the republic which engendered soil International and local studies show that drought. climate changes and natural disasters are closely interrelated. Today, the issues “Intensity and frequency of droughts in of integration of those essential aspects Tajikistan is very likely to increase as into national development programs and a result of climate warming. Climate strategies are discussed at the highest change alongside with such negative level with involvement of national ajikistan T Photo: N. Qalandarov FLood in Hamadoni district,
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 23 climate change and natural disasters
disaster risk reduction strategy and action plan to implement that strategy. The Strategy is to be adopted early next year. “We hope that it will be an integrated document that will help us determine the key priorities and areas of activities for disaster risk reduction for the years to come” - said Colonel Kholiknazarov.
Climate change adaptation is a key priority for Tajikistan. According to the World Bank, the republic is among the 10 most vulnerable countries of the world. A pilot project was launched recently in Tajikistan aimed at building climate change resilience. The project envisages to develop in 2010 a Strategic program on climate change resilience.
“It is expected that the project will be supported by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Tajikistan may receive a grant of USD Source: State Agency on leaders. Failure to address those problems 30 million for implementation of the Hydrometeorology, Tajikistan may jeopardize long-term sustainable Strategic Program focusing on climate development of the countries. There is change adaptation” - noted Ilhom recognition of this fact in Tajikistan also Rajabov. where a number of measures have been taken to identify priority areas and key NB: Tajikistan signed the United directions of activities in this field. Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1998. In 2003, the “The Committee for Emergency Situations Government of the Republic adopted is a key partner of ours. We work with the National Action Plan for Climate them on a day-to-day basis” - said Jamila Change Mitigation. In 2008, Tajikistan Baidullaeva, head of the Hydromet acceded the Kyoto Protocol. The same Center under the State Agency for year, the country prepared the second Hydrometeorology of the republic. “The National Report under the UN Framework Hydromet Center provides CoES with Convention on Climate Change. In 2009, daily, mid-term and seasonal forecasts a resolution was signed in Tajikistan on as well as gale warnings and information establishment of a National Authority on pending natural disasters on a daily for implementation of the Clean basis. In its turn CoES disseminates the Development Mechanism (CDM) within information to local executive bodies” - the framework of Kioto Protocol. pointed out Jamila Baidullaeva.
In 2003, Tajikistan adopted the National Shahodat Saibnazarova, action plan for climate change mitigation Timur Idrisov for 2005-2016. It contains a section on reduction of disaster risks associated with climate change. Sultonnazar Kholiknazarov, the deputy head of the Chief Emergency Headquaters of the Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense under the Government of Tajikistan, pointed out that the CoES in cooperation with other concerned agencies is in the process of developing a
24 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 publications
UNISDR CA Publications in 2009
“How to construct a safe house using clay” Authors: P.Yasunov, Sh.Jalolov. This booklet sets forth in a popular form the main principles of ensuring stability of buildings made of local materials. Besides, it contains the basic information about the origin and aftermaths of earthquakes that should be considered in design and construction. The booklet is aimed at individual builders in rural areas having no specialized education in the field of construction. The publication was commissioned by the sub-regional office for Central Asia of United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction and with financial support of European Commission Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid (DG-ECHO). The booklet was published in the Russian and Tajik languages.
“Compendium of Good Examples of Successful Disaster Risk Reduction Activities in the Sphere of Education in Central Asia” The publication reveals some practical aspects and methodologies applied in DRR-related programs and projects in the sphere of education that were implemented by local and international organizations in Central Asian countries. The Compendium was prepared by the sub-regional office for Central Asia of United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction and the United Nations Children's Fund with financial support of European Commission Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid (DG-ECHO). The publication is available in the Russian and English languages.
“EARTHQUAKE: how to protect oneself from the elements” Authors:Sh.A.Khakimov B.S.Nurtaev The booklet presents in an easily understandable manner a set of materials explaining the nature of the earthquake, its impact on buildings, people and environment. It contains recommendations as to how people should behave before, during and after an earthquake. The booklet is mainly aimed at high-school students, but it just as well may turn out useful for the adult reader. The publication was prepared and carried out through the sub- regional office for Central Asia of United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction with financial support of European Commission Directorate General for Humanitarian Aid (DG-ECHO). The booklet was published in the Russian and Tajik languages.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 25 international day for disaster reduction
International Day for Disaster Reduction
appealed to the world community to take measures necessary to reduce disaster consequences. Emergency preparedness and the use of early warning systems can save human lives and property.
Why do we need safe hospitals? Adverse consequences of natural disasters can be observed everywhere. During the last few weeks alone, the world witnessed the destructive earthquake in Indonesia, typhoon in Philippines and tsunami that struck Samoa and nearby islands.
The study conducted by the Center for Research on epidemiology of disasters reported that over the period from 1980 to 2007 there occurred approximately 8,400 natural disasters that resulted in deaths of over two million people. The total losses from those disasters amounted to over USD 1.5 trillion.
Geoffrey Love, meteorologist and director of the weather and disaster risk reduction center of the World Meteorological organization says that “most deaths and Tajik State Medical Uiniversity, after fire The International Disaster Risk Reduction economic losses were caused by weather, Dushanbe 2008 Day was marked on 14 October throughout climatic and water-related emergency Photo: N. Qalandarov the world. This year the event was situations. These include droughts, devoted to ensuring hospital safety. floods, storms, tropical cyclones and wild fires. Over the last 50 years the According to the United Nations Secretary economic losses increased by 50 times. General, Ban-ki Moon, a list of criteria However the number of deaths dwindled used to estimate hospitals' preparedness by 10 times simply due to the fact that to natural disasters could be accepted as warning systems become increasingly an indicator of reliability of the medical effective. It is true that we can exert facilities. The UN head pointed out that positive influence on the way the situation such an indicator was already being used develops. Certainly, extreme phenomena in a number of countries in Latin America will continue to happen in the future but as well as in other countries such as they do not necessarily need to become Oman, Sudan and Tajikistan. disasters.”
A special campaign has been conducted Mr. Love went on to say that emergencies for two year aimed at ensuring full- will be happening all the time but they fledged operation of medical institutions become disasters only when no measures during natural disasters and other crisis are taken to prepare for them: “There situations. It is in such critical times that are a lot of such measures. In terms their uninterrupted operation is of key of planning they are very simple. For importance for saving human lives. example, construction of reinforced buildings or banning of construction in On the occasion of the International areas where the buildings run the risk of Day for Disaster Reduction the UN destruction. In terms of early warning, we
26 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 international day for disaster reduction
need to make sure that absolutely all the Bangkok population is aware of the pending hazard In Bangkok (Thailand), UNISDR, together and an emergency action plan is in place.” with the ASEAN Secretariat and UNESCAP, held an exhibition for a regional drawing The World Meteorological Organization competition entitled ‘Safe Hospitals‘. cites Cuba and Bangladesh as an example During the exhibition an Awards Ceremony of countries that have succeeded in was held together with thematic plenary avoiding numerous casualties by taking sessions. preventive measures. WMO reported that tropical cyclones had brought tens if not Dushanbe hundreds of lost human lives in Cuba in UNISDR organized a meeting with the the past. However, introduction of an Medical University students in the capital early warning system has reversed this of Tajikistan. A region-wide photo contest trend. In 2008, five hurricanes hit Cuba on “Hospitals Safe from Disasters” was but only seven people died as a result of also announced by UNISDR to mark the those emergencies. International Disaster Risk Reduction Day. The Fourth International Conference of Bangladesh has also achieved spectacular the Economic Cooperation Organization results lately. In 1970-1991, around 440 on disaster risk management was held in thousand persons lost their lives as a Dushanbe in early October. Among other result of strong storms. Due to thorough things, the Conference discussed safety of preparation to the possible natural hospitals during natural disasters. disaster the number of people who died as a result of the powerful cyclone Sidr Nairobi in November 2007 amounted to less than A wide range of activities including 3,500 people. simulations to improve preparedness of local hospitals to natural disasters, International Day for Disaster Reduction volunteers' dry-run exercises and exhibitions showing materials and Various events to mark the International equipment required for efficient Disaster Risk Reduction Day where functionning of medical centers during organized throughout the world from and after emergencies took place in Nepal to Panama and from the United Nairobi. All these events bacame possible Kingdom to South Africa. UN agencies, due to close cooperation between UNISDR, international and local non-governmental WHO and Kenya Red Cross and also organizations, public health, medical and respective public authorities and major academic institutions took part in these activities. Exhibition: Safety of our hospitals London In 2001, 3,812 hospitals and medical institutions were The principle events marking the destroyed as a result of an earthquake in Gujarat, India. International Day were held in London (United Kingdom). It was here that the UK In 2003, 50% of all medical institutions were damaged in the Health Protection Agency together with area hit by an earthquake in Algeria. the World Health Organization (WHO) and In 2004, 61% of medical institutions suffered damages in the UNISDR announced establishment of a Indonesian province of Aceh during the tsunami. specialized Thematic Platform on Disaster In 2005, 49% of all hospitals and medical stations were Risk Reduction for Health. Moreover, the completely destroyed during an earthquake in the Northern London Five Hospitals Fire Report was Pakistan. launched by the UK’s National Health Service. Opening Remarks by Sir John In 2008, 57% of all medical institutions sustained damages in Holmes, United Nations Under-Secretary- Myanmar region hit by Nargis cyclone. General for Humanitarian Affairs and In 2008, - over 11,028 hospitals and medical institutions Emergency Relief Coordinator were sustained damages in Sichuan province of China during an delivered by Helena Molin Valdés, Deputy earthquake. Director, UNISDR. In 2009, a large number of hospitals and medical institutions were completely or partly destroyed as a result of disasters that took place in Burkina Faso, Indonesia, Nepal, Italy, Samoa and Tonga.
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 27 international news
2009: the most halcyon year in terms of natural disasters decrease compared with the have increased between 10 decade highest rate of 434 disasters and 50 times (over the last 50 registered in 2005. The figures years), the reported loss of life were released mid-way through an has dramatically been reduced international climate conference by a factor of 10,” said World of member states of UN Framework Meteorological Organization Convention on Climate Change, Secretary-General Michel which opened up in Copenhagen on Jarraud. According to Jarraud December 7 and will last through “progress in monitoring and to December 18. According to forecasting extreme weather, The world this year suffered the preliminary figures, of the along with improved emergency the fewest number of natural 245 disasters registered in the preparedness, has helped reduce disasters in a decade, according departing year, 224 were weather- fatalities”. to the released United Nations related and accounted for seven Moreover, the report said that report, extracts of which were thousand deaths out of the eighty people living in Asia were provided by Reuters. However, nine hundred, according to the especially vulnerable to storms floods, droughts and other extreme preliminary figures. As for economic and floods. In the first 11 months weather phenomena continued to losses in 2009, the natural disasters of 2009, 48 million Asians were account for most of the deaths and caused 19 billion dollars in affected by such disasters, of the economic losses. damages. 58 million total around the globe. There were 245 natural disasters “While the numbers of disasters Source: “Nezavisimaya gazeta” recorded in 2009 - a significant and associated economic losses photo: Russian MoES Multilateral development banks call for adoption of equitable agreement on climate change Manila, Philippines (2 December against the problems caused by the Further on, they renewed their 2009) - The President of Asian climate change. commitment to render assistance Development Bank (ADB) Haruhiko to the developing countries in The presidents of Asian Development Kuroda, together with the heads adaptation to climate change, Bank, African Development Bank, of other multilateral development creation and transferring of European Bank for Reconstruction banks, made an appeal to adopt ecologically clean technologies and and Development, European a universal agreement following knowledge as consistent with the Investment Bank, Inter-American the results of the negotiations on countries’ needs. According to the Development Bank, World Bank climate change issues, which will statement, at such an important Group and International Monetary take place in Copenhagen next period, the parties are prepared to Fund undertake commitment to use week. jointly support the countries in the technical assistance and financial maximum utilization of financial As it comes from the statement resources for increasing their flows for creation of equitable, made on Tuesday afternoon (1 contributions to combating the ambitious and universal conditions December), the presidents of climate change. on climate change after 2012. the world leading international The parties acknowledged the financial organizations agreed “Climate change adaptation UNFCCC as a priority and called to coordinate their financial aid represents a horrendous task, for adoption of the Copenhagen allocated to activities in response probably the biggest one, which agreement, which will ensure to climate change. They agreed the mankind ever encountered. ambitious, universal and equitable to use their joint experience, However, this also offers an conditions for all countries to knowledge and resources for opportunity to shift to a more be able to achieve sustainable rendering assistance to members sustainable growth”, noted Mr. development. Meanwhile it will of the UN Framework Convention Kuroda. ensure low levels of carbon on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and emissions and climate change private sector in order to stand Source: official press release of ADB adaptation.
28 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 international news
UN consolidated appeal to donors for humanitarian action in 2010 UN Emergency Aid Coordinator and natural disasters. The funding humanitarian organizations and John Holmes addressed donors will also be used for providing food their partnering non-governmental with a consolidated appeal, to assistance to the hungry people, organizations, mainly in the allocate voluntary contribution rendering medical assistance to African, Asian and Middle Eastern funding for humanitarian activities the diseased and providing tents to countries. The resources, above of UN agencies and institutions. refugees and displaced people. all, will be allocated to render A total of 7.1 billion dollars was assistance to the population of John Holmes noted that the requested for 2010 to render Sudan, Afghanistan and Democratic humanitarian appeal for 2010 – is assistance to 48 million people in Republic of the Congo. the largest one throughout the 25 countries. history of such appeals since 1991. Source: www.un.org As planned, these resources will be Yet, this amount is just 1% of the used for funding of UN activities total funds allocated for support of and its specialized agencies on economies in 2009. rendering emergency assistance to The requested resources will be populations affected by conflicts used to fund the projects of UN Women in poor countries suffer from climate change more than others By end of November, the UN She emphasized that the greenhouse car to get to hospital”, stated the Population Fund (UNFPA) submitted gases emissions have been rapidly Fund representative. its annual report. This year, the key increasing for the last fifty years Soraya Ahmed Obeid appealed to subject of the report is the impact due to the vigorous growth of the governments with a call to fight of climate change effects on the population and industrialization. against the consequences of the status of women and vulnerable “Right now, the humankind stands global warming on the planet, to groups of population. on the verge of a catastrophe”, remember the women’s rights and stated Soraya Ahmed Obeid. The authors of the report the need to render assistance to concluded that the efforts on She stressed out the scope of the them in their efforts on adaptation family planning, protection of damages caused by the modern to the climate change effects. women’s reproductive health and society on the environment. “At The authors of the report ensuring of gender balance may present moment, the carbon trail recommend the governments to influence further climate change of one billion most poor population better prepare for overcoming the process, and may reflect on how of the planet makes up a mere disasters caused by the climate the humankind will be able to three percent of the total scale change and people’s migration, adapt to such changes as the rising of carbon impact. However, the interalia through due regard for of sea level, more frequently impoverished people, of all the the population dynamics and happening hurricanes, storms and others, will have to suffer the improvement of women’s status. droughts. disproportionately large share of hardships caused by the climate UNFPA Executive Director, Soraya Source: UN News Centre change”, the Head of UNFPA Ahmed Obeid, presenting the Photo: Firuz Barotov pointed out. new report in London, pointed out: “The report suggests that She underlined that already the climate change issue is not now, many people in the world, only the concern of technologies. especially women from poor This relates to the people, as the countries, acutely feel and suffer people’s activities caused the more than others from the negative problem. Climate change has a changes of climate, even though negative impact on people and they they have little to do with it. “Poor have to adapt to its effects. And women do not travel by airlines. only people are in position to stop They do not drive cars. As a rule, this process”. when they have difficulties in bearing a child, they cannot find a
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 29 international news
Transportation chaos caused by heavy snowfall continues in Europe The number of victims of the temperature throughout the harshest natural disaster for the history of observations has been last several yeas which struck registered - minus 34 degrees. Europe reached 80. Massive snowfalls and extreme Chill and heavy snowfall, which formation of ice on the roads pounced on Europe caused led to a real transportation fatalities. 42 deaths were collapse on land as well as caused by extreme colds during the air communication of the several days in Poland. several European countries. Majority were homeless and Witnesses report that almost all people in a state of alcoholic transportation arteries of the to the passengers in the airports intoxication. Polish resque service United Kingdom are covered by a of Scotland, Wales and England. acknowledged that “they never “stiff” ice crust. On Monday alone, London Heathrow requested its experienced such cases of multiple around 20 thousand road accidents passengers to check their flight fatalities caused by cold”. 27 and other “road contingencies” information beforehand. deaths were reported in Ukraine, were reported to have happened 6 in Germany. Others became the across the UK, which is double the The largest in Europe, Frankfurt victims of road traffic accidents on usual daily figures. am Maine airport, still operates the icy roads of Austria, Finland in a far from normal mode. It was and Germany. Meteorological forecasts are closed for a night of Monday to disappointing: nasty weather will Tuesday, which caused cancellation In Switzerland, the all-time continue through to Friday, when of 229 flights. As a result, around 8 minus temperatures throughout Western Christmas is celebrated. thousand passengers were not able the country history have been This will force tens of thousands to depart for their destinations. registered: in some of the regions of British citizens to change thermometer stems showed as their New Year’s plans. Flight Source: “Rossiyskaya gazeta” low as 35 degrees below zero. In cancellations or significant delay German Bavaria another record warnings have already been given
ASEAN agreement on disaster risk management and emergency response comes into force “The agreement of the Association coordination mechanisms, The region was hit by the tsunami of South-East Asian Nations and simplified customs and in December 2004, leaving more (ASEAN) on Disaster Management immigration procedures”, says the than 200,000 people dead. and Emergency Response (AADMER) document. entered into force on Thursday, Signed by the ASEAN Foreign after ratification by all its ten “The agreement is one of the Ministers in July2005, AADMER also member states ”, says a standing fastest-negotiated documents provides for the establishment secretariat press-release of ASEAN. in ASEAN’s history, having gone of an ASEAN Coordination Centre through a mere four months of for Humanitarian Assistance “The agreement is the region's negotiations,” the Secretary- on disaster management (AHA response to the need to establish General of ASEAN, Dr. Surin Centre) to undertake operational a regional disaster management Pitsuwan said. “The entry into coordination of activities, and the framework. It contains provisions force of AADMER is a remarkable development of a task specific on disaster risk identification, progress for ASEAN in its joint Work programme for 2010-2015, monitoring and early warning, effort in responding to disasters the signing of which is scheduled prevention and mitigation, happening in the region and for March 2010. preparedness and response, in reducing disaster risks more rehabilitation, technical effectively,” he said. Source: RIA News Agency cooperation and research,
30 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 regional news
Disaster risk management issues under discussion in Armenia Armenia has to learn how to the complex task of building up The Forum on Disaster Risk manage disaster risks, said a comprehensive system of up- Reduction and Emergency Armenian Prime Minister Tigran to-date management enabling Situations Management was Sarkisyan on 14 December prediction of disasters. organized by the World Bank in 2009 at the Forum on Disaster cooperation with the Government Risk Reduction and Emergency “So far we have been suffering of Armenia with the financial Management which took place in from hails, landslides, droughts, support of the Global Facility Armenia. soil erosion; there is also a for Disaster Risk Reduction and threat of desertification, that Recovery (GFDRR). “We must learn to live under is to say almost all kinds of emergency conditions: more than natural disasters. Considering The participants of the forum any other country, Armenia is this, in the first place, we must discussed the government’s aware of disaster consequences”, correctly identify the priorities priorities and programmes in the said the Prime Minister reminding and problems as our financial area of disaster risk management, in particular that some 21 years resources do not allow us to make reviewed the issues of seismic have passed from the Spitak large-scale investments in this challenges, floods and landslides earthquake, yet Armenia still sector. In relation to the said, it risks, institutional systems of suffers from its economic, social becomes particularly important information and forecasting of and psychological impact. to undertake analytical activities potential emergency situations, as which will enable us to reveal well as natural disaster insurance. According to the Prime Minister the areas where investments Armenia has to learn managing are mostly demanded”, said risks based on the international Sarkisyan. Source: Armenia - news experience, which means to face
President of Tajikistan's address at the Copenhagen climate change summit On December 16, the President intensive melting of snowfields and Our country has initiated of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon glaciers. Just during the last few two important water-related delivered an address at a plenary decades, glaciers in Tajikistan have resolutions of the UN General session of the UN conference on lost over one third of their normal Assembly: initiative to declare climate change that was held in volume” - informed Emomali 2003 the International Year of Copenhagen, Danmark. Rahmon. Fresh Water and initiative to declare an International Decade The President specifically He reiterated his appeal to the of Action “Water for Life” (2005- indicated that Tajikistan is among conference participants about the 2015). The country also pursues an the countries most vulnerable to need to establish an Interantional active water-oriented policy at the the climate change effects despite Facility for Conservation of regional and global level” - stated the fact that its rate of emissions Glaciers that could pool the efforts Emomali Rahmon. per capita is one of the lowest in of the countries in the region and the world. international community in that Source: “Little Earth” strategic sector. “In Tajikistan, which on account of complicated geographical The President also focused in his conditions is becoming increasingly speech on water resources. “I vulnerable to the on-going climate would like to dwell in more detail changes, the average annual air on another important aspect of temperature increased almost by 1 the global climate change, namely, degree Centigrade over the last 60 on its impact on the global fresh years and the number of days with water reserves. heavy precipitation also increased This problem is particularly valid during that period” - said the for Central Asia where water President. forms the basis of socio-economic “However, the key factor of development. those processes is doubtlessly an
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 31 regional news
Rural rescue teams training
From 10 to 24 November 2009, victims, rendering of first aid in emergencies were conducted training exercises were conducted the safety areas. in the pilot communities for in Bishkek, northern villages the first time, the results were of Naryn, Issyk-Kul and Chuy The participants of the exercise encouraging. The final versions of Regions of Kyrgyzstan under were the heads of regional RRT preparedness and response the UNDP project “Integration departments of the Ministry of plans will be adjusted based on of Disaster Risk Management Emergency Situations (MoES), the outcomes of the conducted in Decentralization Process in heads and staff members training exercises. Kyrgyzstan”, which aims at cross- of district departments of checking and testing the existing MoES, representatives of local Source: UNDP Kyrgyzstan preparedness and response plans administrations, school principals Photo: UNDP Kyrgyzstan of the Rural Rescue Teams (RRT). and teachers, schoolchildren of upper grades, members of RRT and According the exercise concept local delegates. 63 participants “after the initial strikes of an out of 111 were rescuers. earthquake of 3-4 degrees and the Evacuation activities comprised possible threat of aftershocks” teachers and schoolchildren of members of RRT work out their secondary schools of all pilot actions on the following main communities - over 350 people. stages of response: early warning, gathering and task setting, As reported by MoES evacuation of schoolchildren, representatives, the exercise search and transportation of observers, even though such exercises on response to
Emergency and disaster medicine chair opens in Kazakhstan for the first time The doctors of the Disaster when the present-day realities specialties within the framework Medicine Centre under the Ministry demanded for preparation of new of qualification upgrading in their of Emergency Situations (MoES) profile specialists. The centre respective fields of specialization. of the Republic of Kazakhstan will focus on preparing doctors have accomplished the first of “Emergency and Disaster The centre will fulfil such cycle of professional training and Medicine” qualification, as well as objectives as teaching upgrade course. Upon completion on the professional training and organizational basics of health of the training, the first group of upgrading of the doctors working care services in emergency students – 10 specialists from the in the respective fields. situations, practical learning of Disaster Medicine Centre, have skills in first medical pre-doctor received certificates on successful The centre plans to conduct aid and first doctor aid. Much completion of the course. The qualification upgrade in attention is paid to interaction training course was held as “Emergency and Disaster with other chairs of the university a result of close cooperation Medicine” and professional training for harmonization and more between the MoES of the Republic on the following programmes: effective teaching of emergency of Kazakhstan and the JS “Astana for health sector managers - on and disaster medicine issues, Medical University”. health facility preparedness as well as to the development and effective functioning at the of scientific activities to study The Disaster Medicine Centre was times of disasters and emergency and improve the methodologies established by the JS “Astana situations, for doctors of MoES of rendering first medical aid to Medical University” in October working on pre-hospital health disaster victims. 2009. The idea to establish the care services. The centre will centre emerged back early2009, also train doctors of other Source: Press-Service of MoES RK
32 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 regional news
Search & rescue exercises of MoES in Uzbekistan In September 2009, the Ministry The teams had to show their The main goal of the conducted of Emergency Situations of expertise in handling hydraulic competitions was prevention Uzbekistan held three-day hardware in a destroyed building of emergencies, population all-around search and rescue and also rescue people from under protection, liquidation of competitions in the area of debris. earthquake consequences and Charvak water reservoir among training of population to act units of the MoES of Uzbekistan. They also had to evacuate “the effectively during emergencies. The goal of the competitions was injured” and administer first aid to excercise MoES operations in to them” - explained an MoES Based on the results of the case of emergencies at water representative. competitions the first place reservoirs. was given to the republican The competitions in the area of multidisciplinary center for According to the Uzbek MoES, Charvak water reservoir were no rapid response; the special rapid different units in the Ministry less challenging. response unit and the search and rescue team of the emergency trained during the competitions to The rescuers were to raise from department of Samarkand region respond to natural and man-made the bottom and carry to the shore were awarded second and third disasters. a dummy immitating a drowned places respectively. “They were to demonstrate good person. Besides, the participants teamwork and skills in responding demonstrated their skills of Source - Regnum information to an earthquake. These were the operating on and under water. agency key-words of the competitions.
An earthquake destroyed the homes of people living in Vanj An earthquake of 5.3 magnitude Preliminary data collected by the six Jamoats of the district 6 on Richter scale struck the Vanj International Federation of Red emergency reponse stations were district of GBAO, Tajikistan, on Cross indicates that 98 houses established. 2 January 2010 at 7:15 in the were destroyed (unsuitable for To carry out a thorough damage morning. further residence) and 622 persons assessment the Government were left without shelter and The deputy chairman of Vanj mobilized a team of experts from currently have to live in their district, Azimjon Shamsiddinov, Dushanbe which comprises experts relatives' or neighbours' houses. informed the media that about 20 from CoES, Institute of Earthquake thousand people were affected. 921 other houses (where 6,215 Engineering and Seismology, “No human casualties were persons reside) sustained slighter Directorate of Geology and State reported as a result of the disaster damage. Agency for Architecture and but people's houses in rural areas Construction. According to FOCUS Humanitarian sustained severe damage. Assistance some houses in the Source: UNDP Tajikistan Some of the houses are beyond center of Vanj settlement such as Photo: UNDP Tajikistan repair. the policlinic, secondary schools in Rog village, the building of the tax I am referring to the villages of department, building of culture Gishhon, Rog and some others...” - department, musical school, said Shamsiddinov. the building of AmonatBank According to the data published and the building of the district by the US Geological Survey the administration also sustained earthquake registered 5.3 on partial damage. Richter scale with the epicenter The Government established located 235 kilometers to the east an Emergency Commission in of Dushanbe, 80 kilometers to the the district center. Besides, to north of Khorog at the depth of complete the needs assessment 44.5 km. of the affected population in
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 33 calendar of events
Cities and climate change adaptation - resilient cities 2010 The first congress on urban resilience and architectural agencies and public utility adaptation to climate change will be held services. Representatives from a number on 28-30 May 2010 in Bonn, Germany. The of international and local organizations, congress will be held preceding the UN private sector and consulting companies climate talks in Bonn, which are scheduled will also participate in the event. for 31 May - 11 June 2010. ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, together Resilient Cities 2010 will enhance with the City of Bonn and in cooperation exchange, learning, networking, debate with many partner organizations, will host and policy development, and find new the Resilient Cities 2010. partners. It is expected that the congress will identify approaches and solutions The congress will discuss the existing for further measures on climate change risks and hazards, socio-economic aspects adaptation and risk management for cities of urban development, planning and and municipalities. infrastructure, financial issues, as well as the technologies and methods of climate Additional information: change adaptation. ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability Congress participants will be mayors and Email: [email protected] representatives of the municipalities, http://www.iclei.org/bonn2010 experts from design institutes and
7th International Course on “Hospital Emergency Preparedness and Response”.
7th international training course Upon completion of the course the on disaster preparedness of participants will know how to: medical institutions will be held on March 8-12, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. • carry out initial preparedness assessment of a medical facility and The training course will be organized by staff to emergencies; the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC). • conduct drills in operation of medical facilities in emergency with a large Natural and man-made disasters often not inflow of the injured; only damage infrastructure but also cause losses of human lives. • propose disaster preparedness and response plans in accordance with the Saving the lives of the injured is necessary requirements; contingent on numerous factors including availability of proper equipment, skilled • apply first aid rules under the field staff and their preparedness to work conditions and depending on the under extreme conditions. characteristics of the natural disaster. The training course was specifically Additional information: developed to help administrations and Asian Disaster Preparedness Center staff of medical institutions to get Email: [email protected] prepared in an appropriate manner to http://www.adpc.net possible emergencies and to improve the system of response and delivery of aid to the injured in case of a disaster.
34 disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 calendar of events
39th regional disaster risk management course
39th Regional Disaster Risk Management - Develop effective strategies for Course will take place from 1 to 19 emergency preparedness and February 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. prevention, response to natural disasters and recovery after the The Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre emergency situations; (ADPC) will organize this training course. The course provides a unique opportunity - Use risk assessment tools for for acquiring extensive skills and identification, evaluation and knowledge on disaster risk management prevention of emergency situations; and building the capacity in this area. - Carry out the activities of emergency The course is designed in such a way command during emergency situations that it helps experts, donor agencies and and natural disasters; other stakeholders working in the area of - Identify key areas and requirements of disaster risk management to utilize gained disaster risk management. knowledge in their existing or being developed programmes and projects. Additional information: Upon completion of the course the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre participants will be able to: Email: [email protected] http://www.adpc.net
Climate change: vulnerability, impact and adaptation On February 1-5, 2010, a training seminar qualification. After completion of the on “Climate Change: Vulnerability, Impact seminar, the participants will be able and Adaptation” will be held in Newcastle, to independently develop and suggest UK. The event organizer is Newcastle strategies for adaptation. University. Upon completion of the course, the The seminar will review the problems of participants will be able to: risks and potential climate change impact • Identify existing risks and the on the environment and infrastructure. infrastructure most vulnerable to Such issues as water resources, floods, climate change; rising of the world oceans’ level and coastal territories, public health, • Incorporate risk aspects into the transportation and urban areas will assessment systems and response be given a particular consideration. In measures; addition to the potential negative effects • Evaluate the most probable impact of climate change, the participants will of climate change and its effects on learn about the measures which may eco-systems and infrastructure; be undertaken in order to adapt to new conditions. • Define necessary measures on adapting the most important The candidates for participation in the engineering systems, facilities and seminar will be engineers, geodesists constructions. and other specialists from various fields of Earth science. The training course Additional information: will enable the participants to acquire http://www.ncl.ac.uk/cegs.cpd/cpd/ fresh knowledge and skills, as well as to ccvulnabout.php upgrade their professional profile and
disaster risk reduction in ca/october-december/2009 35