World Disasters Report 2004: Focus on Community Resilience

by InternationalFederationofRedCrossandRedCrescentSoc (Author), JonathanWalter (Author)

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  Paperback
  2004

  $11.71

  In the hours and days after an earthquake or flood, most lives are saved by the courage and resourcefulness of friends and neighbours. During slow-onset crises such as drought, many indigenous societies have developed extraordinary capacities to cope and bounce back. How can humanitarian organizations, which seek to bring aid to disaster-struck communities, strengthen rather than undermine this local resilience? Can the capacity of communities to cope with crisis be directed towards trying to prevent or mitigate the impacts of disasters? Perceptions of disaster differ between those on the frontline and those trying to help. Evidence from the field suggests that everyday threats to livelihoods are a greater concern to most poor communities than 'one-off' disasters. So are efforts to promote community-based disaster mitigation and preparedness failing to meet the expressed needs of at-risk communities? The report argues that a broader approach to risk reduction is needed, which takes into account not just hazards, but livelihoods, health and governance as well. Published annually since 1993, the World Disasters Report brings together the latest trends, facts and analysis of contemporary crises - whether 'natural' or human-made, quick-onset or chronic.