Could you update us on any recent developments in disaster legislation in Nepal?
The Government of Nepal expressed its commitment to disaster risk reduction by signing the Hyogo Framework for Action in Kobe in 2005. This has been followed up by drafting the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management (the Strategy), the National Policy for Disaster Management and the new Disaster Management Act (dealing with the legal facilities recommended by the IDRL Guidelines). These will all be approved soon.
How involved was NRCS in these processes?
In the Strategy drafting process, the NRCS Chairman was a member of the steering committee, and I sat on various working committees, where I had the opportunity to highlight the importance of IDRL. I was also on the Steering Committee for the Policy and Act, and the drafts were discussed with various stakeholders including NRCS.
Why was it felt necessary to draft new legislation?
The existing Natural Calamity (Relief) Act of 1982 is the sole legal instrument defining disaster at the moment, and it focuses primarily on disaster relief. The new Disaster Management Act is broader and touches on the legal facilities for entry and operations - including with regard to relief goods, equipment and personnel - which are clearly recommended by the IDRL Guidelines.
What follow-up has there been to the adoption of the Guidelines at the 30th International Conference?
For now, we are discussing and promoting the IDRL Guidelines within NRCS. We then plan to disseminate and promote the Guidelines widely to our stakeholders and the authorities concerned.
Are there any challenges that you have faced? What best practices have emerged?
The challenges faced so far have been minimal. NRCS has been well-represented at government level and is considered as one of the key players in disaster management. The constant open dialogue among stakeholders and the participatory approach have contributed to a comprehensive Disaster Management Policy and Act.