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“We are gathered here today to gain a better understanding of international disaster response law and to introspect on our own legal preparedness.”

Tropical Cyclone Pam brought wide-spread devastation to the small Pacific island nation of Vanuatu nearly two years ago. It also brought an outpouring of aid, including 70 shipping containers of unrequested goods from well-intentioned donors who hoped their collections of food, used clothes and household items would reach people in need.

Every year, millions of people in the South-East Asian region face the risk of losing their properties, belongings and even their lives to natural disasters. Having a solid plan and a law requiring the implementation of programmes and activities that reduces the impacts of disasters could help prepare communities and allow them to recover more quickly.

Disasters affect women, men, boys, and girls in different ways. Socio-economic conditions, traditional practices, and cultural beliefs, often mean that women and their children are disproportionately affected; facing increased risk of death, injury, loss of livelihoods and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The prominence of gender inequality in disasters and exposure to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) after disasters are increasingly recognized.

“If we fail to plan, we plan to fail” – words that echoed across a meeting room in Juba, South Sudan during a Red Cross training workshop earlier in 2017.

In March 2015, Vanuatu was affected by the most intense cyclone in its and the Pacific’s recorded history – Tropical Cyclone Pam.

Living in the wake of a severe humanitarian crisis and ongoing civil unrest, South Sudan continues to demonstrate its undying determination to build strong foundations for its people.

South East Asia – a region that is no stranger to natural hazards – provides examples of some of the most comprehensive laws, policies and practices to both reduce risk from and respond to hazards.

The Global Disaster Law team is pleased to announce some exciting news for our fellow disaster law enthusiasts: the launch of a new online learning module on law and disaster risk reduction!