UNICEF urges disaster risk reduction

TTKN: As the world marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on 13 October, UNICEF today urged governments and civil society partners to step up efforts to help mitigate the impact of disasters – especially on children – by helping communities to become resilient, and more able to respond to disasters and changing climate conditions.

Children typically represent 50 to 60 per cent of those affected by disasters, whether through loss of life or from diseases related to malnutrition and poor water and sanitation—conditions that are exacerbated by disasters. In addition, disasters disrupt education and can cause psychological distress, and present issues of exploitation of children, creating more vulnerability.

…UNICEF is redoubling efforts globally to reduce the risks associated disasters. In Bangladesh, more children die from drowning, than any other country in the world. Some 17,000 children drown each year. With risks increasing due to climate change, extreme weather patterns, frequent flooding and rising sea levels, UNICEF and its partners have taught Bangladeshi children how to swim. As of last year, 35,000 Bangladeshi children have been taught to swim, and many have learned life-saving techniques.

Recent trends show increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters: heat waves, floods, droughts, cyclones and earthquakes. Climate change, particularly when coupled with underdevelopment, environmental degradation, and urbanization, is becoming one of the most important drivers of disaster risk….