Drr cancun

Protecting the People: Creating Foundation for Local Development

Enthusiastic participants of 2017 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, 2-26 May 2017, Cancun, Mexico.

CANCUN, Mexico: All attentions are now focused on development. At the end of the day, the collective efforts are meant not only to protect people, but also to enhance their quality of life. While today’s world has put more echoes on the latter; still, it cannot be denied that fulfillment of good quality of life can only be achieved if relevant partners and their positive surroundings are minimally exposed to the impact of destruction; from disaster for instance.

Embracing this idea, UCLG and its regional sections participated in the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction held by UNISDR in Cancun, Mexico, on 22-26 of May 2017; and has taken further action as its commitment for the fulfilment of target ‘e’ of Sendai Framework.

In this 2017 version, UNISDR insisted key leaders and distinguished representatives to put more weight on the disaster risk governance; mainstream it in economic life of both private and public sectors. Discussions

were, therefore, designed varied to ensure fruitfulness and messages hit the target. From exclusive Leaders Forum up to 44 side events, selected themes secured essential aspects of disaster risk management, such as critical infrastructure; early warning and risk information; ecosystem protection, management and resilient agriculture; inclusive and people centered DRR; and international cooperation. With increased acknowledgement of the role of young generation, UCLG ASPAC brought the voice of youth in Asia-Pacific in discussion taking theme “Strengthening Resilience for and with Young People,” and brought back knowledge of children and youth’s participation in the implementation of the Sendai Framework, including challenges, best practices, and future opportunities.

In addition to its involvement in the international forum, UCLG ASPAC has also translated its strengthened commitment towards the achievement of target ‘e’ of Sendai Framework of Disaster Risk Reduction in form of providing an essential tool for related authorities to take further action in regards to the effort taken to reduce disaster risk in their respective area. Specifically selected five disaster most prone countries within Asia-Pacific region (Indonesia, India, the Philippines, Nepal, and Bangladesh), UCLG ASPAC is currently seeing progress and expecting to complete the report of disaster risk reduction implemented by cities and local governments in those five countries by the end of 2017.