International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed annually on October 13 with the aim of reducing risks from natural and human-induced disasters, preventing losses caused by disasters, and making communities resilient. The day aims to raise awareness about reducing the vulnerability of individuals and communities to disasters.

Disaster Risk is defined by the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) as the likelihood of damage that a specific hazard could cause to people, settlements, and the natural environment if it occurs in the future. When combined with inadequate precautions and vulnerability, disasters can lead to serious social, economic, and environmental losses.

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History

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction was proclaimed by a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1989. The period 2005-2015 was declared the Decade for Natural Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Hyogo Framework for Action was published. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030), adopted in 2015, aims to better understand the dimensions of disaster risk exposure, vulnerability, and hazard, and to strengthen disaster risk management at the national level.

Purpose and Importance

The fundamental goal is to prepare communities for disaster risk, emphasize the importance of preventive and mitigating strategies, and minimize the losses caused by disasters. Disasters can disrupt the exercise of fundamental rights such as health, education, shelter, and work. Their economic impacts can leave countries facing increased debt, low income, and recurring humanitarian crises. Therefore, reducing disaster risk is critical to protecting the right to a safe life and human rights.

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Reducing Disaster Risk in a Global Context

Under the leadership of the UN and UNESCO, international policies and programs have been developed to reduce disaster risk. UNESCO aims to increase the resilience of communities through education, early warning systems, and capacity-building efforts. Themes set each year aim to raise awareness among communities about disaster risk. The theme for 2024 is “Empowering a Resilient Generation for the Future,” which aims to protect young people from disasters through education. The theme for 2025 is “Invest in Resilience, Fund Disasters,” emphasizing the importance of preparedness and resilient investments against disasters.

UNESCO is conducting comprehensive school safety and safety culture development work through the Global Alliance for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience in Education (GADRRRES). This approach focuses on preventive methods covering both physical infrastructure and risk-reducing practices. UNESCO also aims to increase rapid response and recovery capacity after disasters and promote early warning systems through the Natural Sciences Emergency Fund.

Disaster Risk Reduction Efforts in Turkey

Turkey is a country that faces natural disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, and avalanches, as well as humanitarian crises. Efforts to address disaster risk across the country are coordinated by AFAD. The Turkey Disaster Risk Reduction Plan (TARAP) and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Plans (İRAP) ensure that risks are reduced at the local level.

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