International Day of Disaster Reduction: Resilience is for Life

Sunday, October 12, 2014

As the world recognises International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) today, World Vision appeals to governments, development organisations and civil society to prioritise an age inclusive risk reduction approach. As a child-focused organisation, World Vision recognises the role that older people have in their communities as care givers and role models for the younger generation, who are often the most vulnerable during disasters. The experiences, knowledge and wisdom of older persons are vital for a holistic risk reduction plan that could shape a more resilient next generation.

This year, the focus of the International Day for Disaster Reduction is on older people, including their needs and contributions towards better planning and understanding of disaster risk in their communities. - UNISDR

UNISDR reports that today, people aged 60+ years old constitute 11% of the global population. By 2050, this proportion would have doubled to 22% – that is, 2 billion older persons. Populations are ageing most rapidly in developing countries, which are currently home to 60% of the world’s older persons and projected to rise to 80% by 2050.

Angel Theodora, Director of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs for South Asia & Pacifc says, “Often when adults have to go to work, older people are left to take care of the children. If there is an emergency or a disaster in the community, they are most likely the first responders. This makes them partners to ensure the safety and well-being of children are looked into, and can be a powerful resource in our work toward more resilient communities.”

The collision of increasing global disaster risk and increasing numbers of exposed older persons must be addressed at every level of disaster management planning to ensure that the impact of disaster does not continue to grow along with these trends.

Older people’s knowledge can be a great contributor to sustainability and resilience building. In understanding issues surrounding hazards, environmental degradation and climate change, older people have a lifetime of experience.

Murray Millar, Director of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs for East Asia says, “The older we get, the more fragile our physical bodies become. Yet the potential wisdom that can accompany age is unlimited and expansive - when listened to, they can help protect us from repeating mistakes of the past and provide a moral compass and conscience to guide us into new territory that technology is enabling.”

World Vision is at the forefront of disaster responses in the Asia-Pacific, and invests in inclusive risk reduction as an integral component of the organisation’s emergency management approach. 

About International Disaster Reduction Day
The International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) was started in 2009 by the UN General Assembly to recognize the importance of communities working to reduce their risks to disasters and to encourage citizens and governments alike to take part in building more disaster resilient communities and nations. This year's day will highlight the need for a more inclusive approach for older people in disaster risk reduction and recognize the critical role they can play in resilience-building through their experience and knowledge.

Spokespersons:

Murray Millar
Director, Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs
East Asia Region
Mobile: (66) 8 1750 5346
E-mail: murray_millar@wvi.org
Skype: mmillar

Angel Theodora
Director, Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs
South Asia and Pacific Region
Mobile: +65 81235316
Email: angelina_theodora@wvi.org
Skype: angelindora

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