Observations on strengthening community participation in disaster risk reduction in disaster law and policy

Abstract

Recognition of the significant role of communities in disaster risk reduction (DRR) can be found in an increasing number of international instruments, national laws and policies.1 Yet, despite extensive formal endorsement, in practice, community participation is often merely symbolic or simply missing. The present paper attempts to investigate the reasons compromising the effectiveness of communities’ contribution in the field of DRR. The analysis is conducted looking at studies on the implementation of relevant national legislation, assessments of community-based projects undertaken with the support of NGOs, international organizations and National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and national progress reports on the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action.