Armenia: UN marks the international day for disaster risk reduction
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Armenia partnered with the RoA Ministries of Emergency Situations, Education and Science, the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction Foundation, the State Academy of Crisis Management
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Armenia partnered with the RoA Ministries of Emergency Situations, Education and Science, the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction Foundation, the State Academy of Crisis Management, as well as UNICEF, WHO, World Vision, Save the Children, Armenian Red Cross Society, and Oxfam GB Armenia to mark the International Day for Disaster Reduction.
This year's observance of the International Day for Disaster Reduction recognizes the vital role of children and young people. Natural hazards are increasing and while more and more people suffer from the related catastrophes, children are among the most traumatized as their ability to cope with unexpected and painful interruptions to their regular schedules is still not fully developed. Some 66 million children are affected by disasters every year. It calls on youth networks, teachers, civic society organizations, media, mayors, local governments, community leaders, private sector and citizens to Step Up For Disaster Risk Reduction!
As part of the activities related to the International Day for Disaster Reduction, UNDP "Strengthening of National Disaster Preparedness and Risk Reduction Capacities" project developed and will publish a book of photo stories. Sixteen young boys and girls from Tavush, Lori, Shirak and Syunik regions, guided by professional photographers, were given a two-week opportunity to "express themselves and tell us frankly about the community they live in, about people surrounding them, as well as the nature which they rely on." In particular, they were asked to reveal the natural and climate change related hazards specific for their area, exploring potential risks and extent to which these risks are being addressed.
The purpose of this exercise is to make the people's voices heard by the policy makers, encouraging people to step up for disaster risk reduction and to strive for building resilient communities. In addition, these photos will be showcased in various social networks to get feedback from the ordinary people. If successful, the initiative will be replicated at national level. The project also plans to organize mobile exhibitions of the photos in the regions.