The United Nations’ (UN) International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction is observed on October 13 every year. This day encourages citizens and the government to build a society without disaster. Its main objective is to reduce disaster risk and create a safe community.
It raises the profile of disaster risk reduction. It also encourages people and governments to participate in building more resilient communities and nations.
According to the United Nations data released recently, the number of women and children who lost their lives in disasters worldwide is 14 percent more than men. Although 60 percent of women die in preventable conditions, the figure is 53 percent for children younger than five years.
Other affected people or groups include persons living with disabilities. Reducing the risk of hazards, proper management of land and environmental resources, improving community-specific preparedness to deal with disasters and for all such catastrophic events Issuing early warning is the focus of disaster risk reduction purposes.
History of International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction
On December 22, 1989, the UN General Assembly designated the second Wednesday of October as the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. This event was to be observed annually during the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, 1990-1999. On December 20, 2001, the assembly decided to maintain the observance to promote a global culture of natural disaster reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.
How International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction is observed
Activities for the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction usually include media announcements about launches for campaigns that center on the day’s theme. Governments and communities also take part in the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction through various events such as drawing, drama, essay or photography competitions that focus on making people aware of natural disaster reduction and increasing their preparedness for such situations. Other activities include community tree planting; conferences, fairs, and seminars; and street parades.
