SAARC Comprehensive framework on disaster management
The framework provides a platform for South Asian countries to:
• Establish and strengthen the regional disaster management system to reduce risks and to improve response and recovery management at all levels;
• Identify and elaborate country and regional priorities for action; • Share best practices and lessons learnt from disaster risk reduction efforts at national levels;
• Establish a regional system to develop and implement regional programmes and projects for early warning;
• Establish a regional system of exchanging information on prevention, preparedness and management of natural disasters;
• Create a regional response mechanism dedicated to disaster preparedness, emergency relief and rehabilitation to ensure immediate response; and
• Create a regional mechanism to facilitate monitoring and evaluation of achievements towards goals and strategies.
Expected Outcome:
• An efficient disaster management system;
• Mainstreaming disaster risk reduction into the development policies and practices of the government at all levels;
• Disaster resilient communities that have enhanced coping capacities in relation to all hazards;
• Development of policies and programmes that recognizes all risks to the communities, and mitigation strategies that are based on a risk management assessment;
• Greater levels of coordination and cooperation at national, regional and international levels; and
• Enhanced information, warning and reporting systems within governments at all levels.