Sendai Framework’s Global targets A and B: Opinions from the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction’s Ignite stage 2019

This article contributes to the understanding of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015−2030 seven global targets by exploring: (1) what are the conditions that may hinder achieving targets, as well as those that may accelerate their achievement at the national and local levels; and (2) which types of organizations should lead a country’s effort to reduce disaster deaths? To answer these questions, a semistructured questionnaire and key informant interviews were conducted with the participants of the Ignite Stage Session at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction’s (UNDRR) Sixth Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (hereafter, Global Platform) in 2019, in Geneva, Switzerland. 

A few recommendations are outlined to reconfigure policy, practice, and research for targets A and B. Increasing the number of disaster risk reduction strategies and policies is likely to increase investment in science (social and physical), awareness, and empowerment of disaster responders and at-risk communities. It is also evident that targets A and B warrant a multi-sectoral approach. It is equally important for UNDRR, UNDP, and regional organizations to highlight the importance of national governments in realizing targets A and B. Lastly, if target B is not sufficiently emphasized by UNDRR, UNDP, and national and regional organizations, the consequence is likely to be an increase in the numbers of indirect deaths, and thus poverty and vulnerability will ratchet upward in low and middle-income countries.