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Challenging Disparities: International Disaster Risk Reduction Day Unpacks Inequalities and Resilience
International Disaster Risk Reduction Day, commemorated on October 13, saw the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean partnering with the Institute of Jamaica (IOJ), and the National History Museum of Jamaica to host a panel discussion and exhibition. The event which brought together more than forty students from high schools and tertiary institutions, was held under the theme "Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future," and aimed to shed light on critical aspects of disaster risk reduction, through the voices of Jamaican experts in natural history and heritage protection, meteorology, and climate change.
The discussions at the event emphasized the need for broadening the definition of a disaster beyond natural and manmade. Dr Shani Roper, Curator at UWI Museum emphasized the need as well for considering the functioning of historical structures including implementing planning, policies, and structures for collections management as well as planning for social disruptions and the well-being of staff in responding to changes of weather.
The panelists also underlined the need to address inequalities surrounding the protection of not only natural sites but also heritage sites. They further highlighted the lack of attention given to intangible cultural heritage, which they say is often overlooked in disaster risk reduction efforts.
Dr Lesley-Gail Atkinson Swaby, Lecturer and Archaeologist at the UWI, Mona, stressed the importance of public education in understanding and preserving these assets.
In order to protect, you have to understand what you have; this is why public education is so critical. When communities know what they have, they have extreme pride.
Another panelist, Mr. Evan Thompson, Principal Director at the Meteorological Service of Jamaica underscored the need to reduce inequalities by providing information and enforcing laws to ensure not only the protection of these sites but also the well-being of the individuals and communities residing near them. This he added, would also be aided by effective urban planning and the enforcement of evacuation procedures during natural disasters.
Dr. Shani Roper, Curator at UWI Museum brought attention to the impact of natural disasters on everyday life, highlighting the concept of "memory loss." She explained how generations that have not experienced particularly devastating disasters may struggle to relate to or be motivated to protect their environment due to a lack of first-hand experience. This disconnection exacerbates inequalities, as there's a failure to learn from the past.
The discussion also delved into the challenges posed by antiquated laws affecting the protection of natural and heritage sites, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement and policing.
Mr. Lance Scott, Researcher and Lecturer at the Portmore Community College, pointed out that disaster resilience initiatives and policies should also consider the vulnerabilities of women and children. He provided the example of shelters where they require access to essentials like water, electricity, and sanitation equipment. He also added that since poverty is both a consequence and an impact of disasters, it necessitates addressing the root causes of inequality and strengthening institutions that support women and children.
The issue of insurance was another significant topic. Though there has been a proliferation of insurance products in Jamaica to address disaster-related risks. Dr Roper noted that the high cost associated with insurance often perpetuates inequalities, given that there isn't a strong culture of insurance in Jamaica.
Not enough people insure, resulting in the high costs.
The panelists emphasized the need to redefine resilience, provide options, increase public education, and ensure that natural and heritage sites are also insured. They also stressed that cultural heritage should not be reduced to a mere economic value.
In the final thoughts, Mr. Thompson also highlighted gaps in resilience and recovery, with economic issues playing a significant role. He noted that the lack of information and public education, along with misinformation, contribute to these disparities and remarked that ensuring accurate information is provided to all stakeholders is crucial in addressing these challenges.
Dr Atkinson Swaby stressed the importance of integrating disaster response into socialization, citing that disasters can significantly influence a culture.
Dr Roper also pointed out the disconnect between what scientists know about the landmass and what other sectors are aware of. Mr. Thompson quickly emphasized the need for early warning systems, including those accessible to people who can't read, see, or hear, adding that collaboration and effective strategies are necessary for preserving what we treasure.
In his closing remarks, Alibek Otambekov, Programme Specialist, Natural Sciences Sector, UNESCO Office for the Caribbean, highlighted that while disasters cannot be eliminated, vulnerability to disasters can be reduced. He underscored UNESCO’s commitment to partnering with countries and agencies to support their work in reducing inequalities and improving disaster risk resilience.
This event served as a platform for an important dialogue on reducing inequalities and enhancing disaster resilience, emphasizing that collective efforts are essential to protect our environment and heritage for future generations.
