Investing in Disaster Risk Reduction Through Strong Communication Strategies

At Disaster Expo, we had the opportunity to hear from Nahuel Arenas of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction speaking on the increasing economic costs of disasters, and it begged the question of how and where communication strategies fit into the equation. Effective communication strategies are essential for disaster risk reduction (DRR) in a world increasingly affected by natural disasters. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, adopted in 2015 by the United Nations, provides a global blueprint to build resilience and reduce the impact of disasters. Let's talk about the necessity of strong communication strategies as a cornerstone for successful investment in DRR.

At its core, the Sendai Framework highlights four priority areas: understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance, investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience, and enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response. Each of these areas can be significantly bolstered through proficient communication strategies, creating a culture of preparedness and encouraging community engagement.

Understanding disaster risk begins with accurate, clear information that resonates with the affected communities. Organizations can paint a more vivid picture of the risks they face by utilizing localized data and engaging in direct dialogue with community members. Knowledge is power. Communities must know the specific hazards they face—be it floods, earthquakes, or wildfires—and understand the compounding factors, both natural and engineered.

The second priority area focuses on governance, requiring transparent frameworks where communication flows both ways. Engaging stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and local communities, is crucial. Effective collaboration ensures that all voices are heard and policies are informed by those directly impacted. Being present in communities and using a variety of platforms to disseminate information helps to break down the walls of indifference or misunderstanding that often arise in bureaucratic structures, ultimately building trust within the communities.

The third priority—investment in disaster risk reduction—highlights the need to prioritize funding and resources where they can do the most good. Are we investing in communication strategies? Are we investing as much in storytelling ahead of a disaster as we are when we respond? Convincing stakeholders to invest in DRR can often hinge on effectively communicating the long-term benefits. Storytelling can play a pivotal role here. Sharing anecdotes of communities successfully implementing DRR strategies can inspire similar actions elsewhere. One dollar invested in risk reduction can save you fifteen dollars in recovery. Globally, less than one percent of disaster funding goes towards risk reduction, and I would argue even less towards effective communication tools.

Finally, enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response cannot be overstated. Communication plays a crucial role in this area by fostering a sense of community and readiness. Conducting training sessions, community drills, and awareness campaigns ensures that individuals know how to respond when disaster strikes. Clear, timely, and consistent messaging is essential; communities equipped with knowledge and tools will react faster and more effectively when confronted with emergencies.

Investing in disaster risk reduction through strong communication strategies is not just about information dissemination but about building a culture of resilience. The Sendai Framework provides the guiding principles needed to anchor these efforts. Understanding disaster risks, engaging in effective governance, promoting investment, and fostering preparedness can create a future where communities are informed and empowered to act. The time to act is now, as our ability to communicate will define our collective resilience in the face of natural disasters.