Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
June 2006
In collaboration with
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Disabled and other Vulnerable People in Natural
Disasters e- Discussion Summary
Executive summary
As part of a larger knowledge sharing initiative started by the Global Partnership for
Disability & Development after the December 26, 2004 Tsunami, the World Bank held a
three week online discussion on Disabled and other Vulnerable People in Natural
Disasters.
Almost 700 participants from civil society, public and private sector of several countries
around the world engaged in a very lively dialogue that clearly indicated that people with
disabilities and other populations with specific needs should be included in all stages of
planning, mitigation and reconstruction in order to guarantee equal access to disaster
response and relief. Participants contributed a wealth of interesting first-hand experiences
from training and disability awareness to recovery and reconstruction projects targeting
specific vulnerable groups. Some of these experiences were identified as good practices.
To great extent the topics raised from different parts of the world reveal common
concerns: lack of general awareness among all the different stakeholders including people
with disabilities, existence of physical, communication, and cultural barriers, and the
need to mainstream disability issues into disaster-related policies. In addition, participants
raised a number of issues that are of particular concern to particular countries or regions,
such us use of cell phones and other technologies as early warning system in more
developed regions. Differing views on the necessity of registration of vulnerable
populations for a successful preparedness and strategies for reconstruction highlighted
that the priorities in disaster planning, relief and recovery for vulnerable populations vary
significantly across regions and countries.
Overall, the more than 760 messages received also call the attention on the need of
continuing and replicating a dialogue initiated in this forum in a sustainable manner.
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Introduction
From May 22 to June 9, 2006 the World Bank organized an e-mail based electronic
discussion on the issue of Disabled and other Vulnerable People in Natural Disasters".
The discussion was hosted by DevForum - The World Bank Platform for E-Discussions
and Communities - and it was open to all interested parties; however intended
participants needed to complete subscription in order to be granted with file access and e-
participation.
The objective of this dialogue was to solicit information and recommendations regarding
disabled people and other vulnerable groups in natural disasters. Participants worldwide
enriched the online dialogue with valuable contributions. The discussion was fed by the
active participation of experts on disability issues as well as emergency planners,
responders and relief organizations and included people from students to government
officials to representatives of NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) and DPOs
(Disabled People Organizations). The e-discussion began on May 22 and ended on June
9, 2006. Each week of the three week e-discussion were dedicated to one of the following
topics:
In order to facilitate the exchange, the posting was moderated and the discussion
organized under subtopics. At the end of each day, the moderators summarized the key
points of discussion.
The following conclusions, which are grouped by week, are the result of the debate.
They will be made available to emergency and development agencies including the World
Bank, policy-makers and civil society.
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First Week: Disaster Preparedness & Mitigation
During the first week, the discussion focused on the topics of Disaster Preparedness &
Mitigation. The subtopics proposed by the moderators were:
The following sections summarize the diagnosis of the situation and recommendations on
the main themes addressed by the participants during the first week.
Emergency Plans
Most contributions highlighted the necessity of the inclusion of people with disabilities
and other vulnerable group in the design of different stages of planning. In rural areas,
where Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) committees and other local based
community organizations may be in place, disaster preparedness should be
conceptualized and implemented with the involvement of all community members. Their
participation is crucial to ensure equal access to disaster evacuation and relief. As a
result, vulnerable groups and their specific needs are clearly identified while measures
and facilities are adjusted to incorporate such needs. According to the participants, basic
needs of vulnerable populations should be seen as the equivalent of the general
populations; however, there may be different requirements in fulfilling their needs. The
participants concluded that evaluation and monitoring of the inclusion of vulnerable
groups in preparedness should be also part of planning. Since all disasters are local,
starting locally is always the best plan. Developing a bottom up approach to planning
was the most accepted suggestion.
Key points for disaster planning for vulnerable population, especially people with
disabilities include:
A particular topic of discussion that attracted the interest of some participants was the
incidence of medicine stock control policies on people with disabilities and older people
in natural disaster situations. Restrictive policies should be reviewed and provisions made
that would enable patients to more easily access medicine in cases of emergencies.
Another point was to extend the preparedness beyond the civil society- government
partnership to increase participation of the local community. For relatively isolated
communities, private sector involvement in response planning is critical. For example,
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fuel, food, and transportation are often supplied by the private sector. Consequently,
there is a need to raise awareness of the local community and in particular the private
sector on the specialized needs of people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in
situation of natural disasters.
Regarding the cost of including vulnerable groups into planning, some participants
agreed that this process does not have to be costly for either national or local
stakeholders, but instead requires planners to redistribute existing funds.
Finally, there was a general agreement that people with disabilities and other vulnerable
populations must develop their own emergency plans as well as establish support groups
at the community level.
Training
With regard to specific training on the inclusion of people with disabilities and other
vulnerable population in emergency planning, there was a general consensus on a twin
track approach: training vulnerable populations is as important as training emergency
planners and responders from governmental and other agencies.
The majority of the participants referred to providing training in accessible format for
people with disabilities and other populations. This consideration includes materials in
Braille, audio versions, large print, use of sign language interpreters, plain language, etc.
The need of delivering trainings in facilities that are physically accessible was also
mentioned. In addition, people with auditory disabilities should be trained and, at the
same time, encouraged to become volunteers, so they can help their deaf communities
when interpretation is not available.
One of the communication tools for preparedness that was mentioned was a booklet
highlighting the specific needs of the types of disabilities which could be used as a
training and reference manual for disaster/relief personnel. This manual would also help
to educate persons with disabilities and sensitize the general public as well.
Training of trainers was indicated as a good model for small towns and rural areas in
order to enhance the capacity of disaster management committees and prepare a core
team of trainers that can easily multiply the effects with limited resources.
Moreover, one of the e-discussion participants brought attention to the fact that families
of disabled people often shy away from informing State officials about the existence of
people with disabilities. As a result, issue often remains unaddressed at the local level.
Evacuation
When discussing evacuation of people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, most
participants said that emergency-preparedness drills should include real participation of
people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. Simulations or role play exercises
where persons without disabilities take the role of disabled people should be avoided.
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One participant indicated that persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups need
to be accommodated first not last.
Another aspect that was highlighted was the effect of the evacuation trauma on some
populations, such as elder people and children. There is a need to raise awareness of the
general population of the trauma of people with disabilities caused by the lack of
inclusion in initial planning.
There was an animated discussion about access to mobile phones for disabled persons.
Although some participants had concerns about feasibility in developing nations, it was
generally recognized that cell phones help inform relevant authorities, groups, neighbors,
friends and relatives of the status people with disabilities in emergency situations. It was
recognized that due to power outages the life of batteries are often short and therefore
limit the usefulness of cell phones to the initial stages of the disaster.
A participant presented the proposal to establish a 24-hour hotline for disabled people to
call the local government councils. Other participants stated the need to disseminate
information on locations of potential assistance and bring awareness to the procedures
that one should follow in the case of emergency since many people with disabilities are
not aware of the available resources or plans.
In other case cited, the Disaster Office has linked with the Council of/for Disabled
Persons to build a data base for emergency purposes, so the specific needs are included in
the system; the information is shared with the teams on the ground.
1
End-to-end early warning system deliver accurate warning information of potential
hazards dependably and in a timely manner to both, authorities and population at risk, in
order to prepare them for the danger and act accordingly to mitigate against or avoid it
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Shelter
The majority of the participants that made contributions about shelters pointed out that
shelters should become accessible for people with disabilities and should eliminate all the
barriers that could prevent people with disabilities and other groups from the provision of
services. Some of the identified barriers include:
The concepts of universal design2, evacuation shelters, and resources were brought up as
a way to address the needs of all people including people with disability, children, older
people, etc. instead of segregated facilities.
Registration
There was a very interesting debate on the need of registering disabled people and other
vulnerable population; however, no agreement on the subject was reached. While some
participants were inclined to establish registration as a way to quickly reach these groups
and provide them with the needed assistance, other participants raised issues related to
the right of privacy of people with disabilities and the potential uselessness of such
measure in practice. Other alternatives to registration that were mentioned include local
training, integrated public information, and local disaster exercises.
2
Universal Design is an approach to the design of all products and environments to be as
usable as possible by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability or situation.
(Source: What is Universal Design? Universal Design Education Online. Center for Universal
Design, N.C. State University; IDEA Center, University at Buffalo; Global Universal Design
Educator's Network http://www.udeducation.org/learn/index.asp )
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Second Week: Emergency Response/Relief
The second week of the e-discussion addressed the broad topic of Emergency
Response/Relief. Five sub topics were suggested by the moderators:
The 2nd week discussions naturally focused on natural disasters, however, it was stressed
that disasters as a result of wars, torture and terror activities should not be excluded from
the discussion of emergency relief. The following sections summarize the diagnosis of
the situation and recommendations on the new main approaches and themes contributed
by the participants during the second week.
Engaging Stakeholders
The participants listed a few elements to successfully engage those who need to be
involved such as disabled people organizations, agencies, relief agencies and local
communities and others,.
One obstacle is presented by those who see disability as a medical issue, given that
they do not see the need for discussion and inclusion of people with disabilities in their
development of policy and practice. For the uniform engagement of the various groups
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into the planning segment of disasters, agencies addressing an inclusive approach must
understand disability as a social and human rights issue.3
The lack of understanding the policies of each organization and agency at international
and national levels working in the field of Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and
evaluating their response to the needs of people with disabilities are other challenges to
be considered. Indeed, in some countries people with disabilities themselves are focused
on their day-to-day survival issues and are therefore difficult to mobilize in order to direct
the work
3
The social model, or human rights model focuses on the role of society in gaining
equality for all its citizens including people with disabilities without them being seen a people
with special needs. Within this model, society has a responsibility to address barriers that
prevent the participation of persons with disabilities. The focus shifts from fixing individuals
to eliminating socially constructed barriers (meaning everything from prejudice to physical
access barriers). The social model moves disability into the field of community development.
Disabled people perceived as active and equal participants of society, contributing to the
development process. The medical model defines disability as a health problem, a disease,
to be addressed by doctors and rehabilitation specialists who pursue better treatments and
cures for disabling conditions. The focus is on changing disabled people so they can perform
more efficiently in a society that has been constructed by and according to non-disabled
people. After the polio epidemics, survivors were encouraged to use crutches and braces to
enable them to continue to walk, even in instances where a wheelchair would have provided
the survivor greater ease of mobility. (Source: Disability Paradigms and Philosophies,
Overview. Disability. Social Protection & Labor. World Bank.
http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTSOCIALPROTECTION/EXTDISABI
LITY/0,,contentMDK:20194561~menuPK:420459~pagePK:148956~piPK:216618~theSitePK:
282699,00.html )
4
A summary report of the workshop is available at
http://www.lcgbangladesh.org/DER/reports/G&D%20Workshop%20Summary%2014%20Aug
%2005.pdf
5
The checklist is available at http://www.lcgbangladesh.org/DER/reports/DER%20Checklist
%20on%20Gender%20and%20Diversity%20Sensitivity%20(v.24%20Aug).pdf)
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2. A DRM Program of Government of India- United Nations Development Program
in India where during the village planning exercises the work is supported by the
task force during an emergency was cited as a good example, even much more
remains to be done.
Regarding future actions, the discussion around engaging stakeholders identify the
following items as especially relevant:
Finally, it was stated that in particular situations Government might have control over the
capital of the country but the rest of the country may be in the control of either rebel
forces or local warlords. We must keep in mind that in such situations, there is no type of
government structure to use and all planning for disaster relief may have to come for
local communities or agencies outside the country.
For example, as schools are densely populated, a School Disaster Management Plan
needs to be in place for each school. In India, disaster management, as a subject in social
sciences, has been introduced in the school curriculum for class VIII & IX. Children are
a dynamic and powerful force of change and supporters for creating awareness in the
community. Children should be well trained for emergency relief before, during and after
disasters
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1. By being included into the initial planning on local/community/regional levels
2. By being included, where even possible, at national/international levels
3. By understanding what is realistically achievable, given that disasters have a
"cascade" effect (again, people dying of famine, disease, fire, flood, and many
other "after effects" than from the original triggering event)
4. By acknowledging that technology is vastly overrated in catastrophic
circumstances, and yet might, as in cases of early warning. One such example
is the absence of buoys in the Indian Ocean which could have provided a high
level of advance notice of the tsunami: even when US Government agencies
realized the probability of the massive tsunami, they could reach very few
people by internet, radio, phone or otherwise; moreover, even if they could
have reached local emergency officials or agencies there were few warning
devices in place.
The majority agreed on that governments, civil society and activists need to work
together to establish standards in disaster preparedness, response, management and
rehabilitation plans through dialogue and legislative measures, affordable and appropriate
technology in communication, mobility and related needs for people with disabilities. The
solutions should be humane and compassionate; participants fear the reverse could
happen in the future. Concrete measures (such as the installation of the buoys in the
Indian Ocean, or phones, radios, computers capable of receiving constant, updated
weather information from technologically advanced agencies around the world) do help
to reach such solutions.
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disabilities. (For example the Sphere guidelines appear to be based more on the medical
model rather than a rights or social approach) 6
Particularly, a participant highlighted the fact that disaster preparedness should not be
perceived as separate from other development sectors; rather, it should be mainstreamed
in all development programs. It is an established fact that development plans make
significant contributions in decreasing risk and vulnerability factors, and therefore,
integration of people with disabilities in all development plans would provide a lasting
impact on risk and vulnerability factors.
In particular, criticism was raised about the Global Earth Observation System Program
(GEOSS) and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Suggested issues to be
addressed regarding this particular instance are:
1. The GEOSS program has been in process of formation since 2003 and was,
signed into law in 2005 but NOT funded in 2005 appropriations legislation.
2. Has the program started now, has Congress, and/or the 60 countries and 40
international organizations, begun to fund and staff the program?
3. Is there any specially designated funding for addressing the needs of people
with disabilities? Is there a provision to fund a position for a disability
advisor, or for hosting an international meeting of people with disabilities, and
related organizations to address the issues?
4. Guidelines should include accessibility standards for shelter, food and water
distribution and healthcare services that meet universal design principles.
5. Increased attention should be given to national emergency plans to ensure that
warnings. Preparations, rescue and relief efforts all incorporate special
measures and attention to people with disabilities.
6. Information on universal design principles and other accessibility guideline
should be shared with governments and other agencies working in the area of
reconstruction; universal design principles should be routinely adhered to in
reconstruction efforts.
7. Although some agencies have manuals or guidelines concerning the inclusion
of disability in relief efforts, relief workers working on the ground in affected
areas either were not aware of them nor did they know how to use them,
resulting in the exclusion of people with disabilities.7
8. Monitoring of standards should include a test for inclusiveness of persons
with disabilities and the use of universal design principles in reconstruction.
6
Participants referred to the Sphere Project, which is a humanitarian Charter and minimum
standards for disaster response. More information about the Sphere Project is available on
http://www.sphereproject.org/
7
Report at the Mumbai meeting on Standards (2005)
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9. The donor communities must be encouraged to be doing more to ensure that
new construction and major renovations are carried out using universal design
principles.
10. People should contact their national standards organizations and request/lobby
for a new ISO standard on disaster preparedness. It is important the people
with disabilities be nominated/appointed to these standard organizations.
11. Develop hypothetical scenarios that reflect the type of disaster common to
each region. Organize regional simulation exercises to test and strengthen
emergency communication throughout these regions.
Finally, the participants submitted final recommendations reflecting the discussion of the
second week. New contributions highlighted:
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Third Week: Developing standards that are inclusive of all populations
for relief and restoration
The third week of the e-discussion was very rich and participants engaged in fruitful
exchanges. Five sub-topics were suggested by the moderator:
Day 1: Main issues and problems of economic and social recovery and
reconstruction
Day 2: Identification of other ongoing issues and challenges especially
mitigation
Day 3: Examples of good practices
Day 4: Lessons from poor practices
Day 5: Free topic
The overall debate was wide-ranging, encompassing themes ranging from practical
difficulties in the field to cross-cutting issues such as poverty, gender, children, and the
environment.
Main issues and problems of economic and social recovery and reconstruction
Many participants noted that funding simply does not reach people with disabilities in
any stage of disaster management from preparedness to reconstruction. During the
forum, many participants acknowledged that there has been an unprecedented discussion,
debate and awareness in recent years and it seems that disability is finally getting on the
agenda of both the donor countries and the community of agencies who work on
emergency relief. However, much remains to be done if people with disabilities are to
get their fair share of resources to rebuild their lives after a natural disaster.
A number of the participants referred to poverty alleviation agencies. Working with them
has secondary benefits for the disability community: disability issues would be
mainstreamed into poverty reduction programs; capacity with the agencies to address
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disability issues would be raised; and scaling-up efforts, which are often a challenge in
reconstruction efforts, would be enhanced through the existing relationship In fact, many
governments, donors, and organizations working in disaster relief and reconstruction may
already have mandates/policies to include disabled people as a vulnerable group or
priority area. The continuing challenge is to operationalize the mandates and policies,
as soon as possible in the often difficult early phases after a disaster has struck. Lack of
awareness and training prior to a disaster was also raised in this context (see below).
However, the proposed ICRPD, and recent ECHO8 document on cross-cutting issues in
humanitarian work may assist with this process. It is important to remember that many
countries do not have any disability legislation.
About the issue of linking relief and development it is fundamental to address the issues
of poverty. The majority of disaster-prone and disaster-affected countries are poor, and
the poor are disproportionably affected by disasters. Indeed, one contributor called
poverty a weapon of mass destruction. Tackling the question of poverty requires global
solutions, and is linked to other global issues such as environmental protection and
gender inequalities. For example, a recent report on poverty among women in Latin
8
The Dipecho Programme: Reducing the impact of disasters. ECHO European Commission
Humanitarian Aid http://ec.europa.eu/echo/pdf_files/leaflets/dipecho_en.pdf
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America was cited to explore the implications of the links between poverty and gender
inequality. The contributor suggested that this has repercussions in disaster-prone or
disaster-affected countries, as women face specific problems before, during and after
(natural) disasters, such as having children and older adults who are dependent on them.
Though the report does not have a specific disaster focus, the conclusions drawn from it
may have implications for policy and planning, particularly in the recovery period.9
The ways in which long term relief, rehabilitation and development can be better linked
were recognized as challenges related to post-disaster recovery and reconstruction. One
of the recurrent themes in the literature is the (apparent) absence of data or identification
of people with disabilities. Many contributors rightly pointed out that it is an individuals
decision over identifying themselves as disabled. Others pointed out that for reasons of
safety and security, many, particularly women, did not want to be identified and
registered. However, this can have severe repercussion for the allocation of aid and
resources.
Attention was also drawn to other excluded and marginalized groups, and a number of
participants highlighted the limited attention given to so-called forgotten disasters,
refugees and people internally displaced as a direct result of disasters. There is limited
research regarding the coping strategies etc of disabled refugees and displaced persons.
Several participants claimed that mental health and psychosocial projects have become
preeminent in disaster recovery programs in recent years, as was evident in Sri Lanka
after the tsunami. Though the meaning and content is much debated, Post-Traumatic
9
Medeiros, Marcelo and Costa, Joana. Poverty among women in Latin America:. Feminization
or over-representation? International Poverty Centre, 2006 UNDP/IPEA (http://www.undp-
povertycentre.org/newsletters/WorkingPaper20.pdf)
17
Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a concern following any disasters, and there is an ongoing
need to train responders in how to be aware of subtle signs of PTSD
The issue of diversity within the disability and wider disaster-affected communities
continued to be discussed, as well as other vulnerable groups and priority areas such as
displaced people, female-headed households, youth in conflict-affected areas and
informal workers and entrepreneurs in disaster-prone regions. There needs to be stronger
alliances across these communities and organizations to get their voices heard.
Acknowledging diversity within the disability community demonstrates the subtleties that
may be lost when labeling disability as a cross-cutting issue or disabled people as a
vulnerable group. However, it is through such labeling that disability issues are being
placed on the international humanitarian agenda. Sensitivity for diversity within the
populations of disaster-affected countries, which values difference and accommodated
these in recovery and rehabilitation programs is essential for them to be successful. As
noted in the discussions, there is not, nor should there be, a one size fits all approach.
Finally, it was stated that training is linked to mitigation. Equipping people with the
resources to cope with the effects of a (natural) disaster, using locally available resources
and skills, is essential in the management and mitigation of future disasters.
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emergency times to demonstrate the knowledge and willingness to contribute. A
local DPO, STEP, was cited as having engaged at a number of levels with policy
makers on the inclusion of disability in post-disaster planning. They worked
closely with many of the UN agencies teams soon after the earthquake as well as
a number of international organizations, such as Handicap International (HI).
6. One of the gaps highlighted was the overlap (or lack thereof) between the
disability community and psychosocial programs. An example of a psychosocial
program specifically targeting PWDs came from a community-based NGO in Sri
Lanka, who work with people with mental health issues 11. Among the varied
work they do is to offer a community 'drop-in' center for people in the community
who need respite or support. They also offer a community library, training and
other community supports.
7. Another example of good practice following disasters was that of Peer Support.
This relatively new approach is proactive in its use of resources and networks, and
participants found it incredibly empowering. It is relatively low cost and low
tech. It can serve to strengthen the networking of a (disability) community, and
could be built on within the community in the aftermath of the disaster. An
example of a project in the pilot stage came from the Georgia Peer Support
Project12
11
NEST - www.nestsrilanka.com
12
Georgia Peer Support Project http://www.disabilitylink.org/docs/psp/peersupport.html
19
& Response) task force to coordinate pilot projects specific to PWDs in the
community.
11. Another example from India was from the NGO UNNATI. They have worked on
inclusive design and programming, and have developed projects and materials in
direct response to the earthquake in Kutch, the drought in Rajasthan and the
Tsunami14.
2. Again, in an example from Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the Indian Ocean
Tsunami, many development actors claimed not able to find disabled people for
consultation purposes at the beginning and middle of the year. However, on
analysis of some examples, the methodology for consultation was based on
temporary and transitional camp populations, which already presupposed that
disabled people were in these camps.
13
The Lebanese Physically Handicapped Union - www.lphu.com.
14
Social Inclusion and Empowerment Programme UNNATI - Organisation for Development
Education http://www.unnati.org/social-inclusion-empowerment.html
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3. As a number of contributors to the debate highlighted, there has been little
analysis of the gender implications for the effects of disasters, or the effects of
disasters on gender-specific recovery. It was argued that women are at an
increased risk from the effects of disasters, which in turn is linked to poverty, as
well as disaster recovery and management. Women living with disabilities are at
increased risk of poverty, domestic violence and sexual assault, and this has
implications for their recovery from the effects of disasters. Contributors
discussed the role of womens groups, but also highlighted important (and as yet
unresolved) issues of safety, privacy, security, finance, time, resources, health and
human rights.
5. The disability movement in Sri Lanka has a weak capacity, and the government
and other decision-making bodies are very hierarchical. Coordinators in Sri
Lanka had difficulty trying to fast track the capacity development of disability
groups and disabled people to lobby for their inclusion in the reconstruction
process. There was a limited capacity across the board, in areas of attitude,
knowledge and skills.
Networking
The question of on-going networks and discussion forum has been a constant thread
throughout the three weeks. Suggestions for how these networks could be used included:
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3. coordinating advocacy efforts with mainstream relief organizations and
governments to educate them about the need to integrate disability-related
concerns into their work
4. promoting and facilitating links with other civil society organizations (CSOs) and
campaigns.
15
http://www.ideanet.org
16
To Subscribe, send an email to: disasterdisabilitypolicy-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Final Comments and Conclusions
The objective of the email-based discussion Disabled and other Vulnerable People in
Natural Disasters organized and hosted by the World Bank was widely covered. The
information sharing and the exchange produced during the discussion enabled
participants to advance in the conceptualization of this particular issue. Among other
conclusions, this forum demonstrated that planning, response and recovery from disasters
cannot and are not the same in any country. Factors including geographical, social,
political, economic, and demographic collude to mitigate (or not) the effects of the
disaster. Despite regional differences, one constant theme was emerged; to quote one
participant across all the boundaries [] disabled people suffer more than their non-
disabled peers in all contexts.
It is clear from the discussions that there is an evolving body of knowledge and actions
towards the inclusion of people with disabilities in disaster management. However, there
is an urgent need to document and inventory this work and to conduct a critical analysis
to develop some best practices in ensuring the needs of disabled people and other
vulnerable groups are included in emergency relief.
Starting with international minimum standards such as the Sphere Project, there is a need
to ensure an inclusive result that is not based on a medical model of disability.
Preparedness must include training for all who work in emergency relief work. This
training must be developed, delivered and evaluated in a manner that is inclusive of all
populations. National governments and international agencies have a fundamental
responsibility to require international components such as responding to a large and
massive disaster but many need fundamental help in capacity building to enable
meaningful and effective interventions that include people with disabilities and other
populations.
Summarily, the participants agree on that disaster planning, mitigation and recovery for
people with disabilities remains a fundamental challenge to the field, and must be
included in general plans, which need to be inclusive of all those living in affected
communities. All of the disability and disaster efforts must be planed and executed in
combination with overall strategies for poverty reduction; environmental issues; gender;
local knowledge; inclusive policies/practices/ training.
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Appendix I: Disabled and other Vulnerable People in Natural
Disasters e- Discussion List of Resources
Relevant publications and news
1. Get Prepared. American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/tipaday/
4. Disaster Resources for People with Disabilities and Emergency Managers. June
Isaacson Kailes, Disability Policy Consultant. 2006
http://www.jik.com/disaster.html
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11. Business center for people with disabilities winner of the Philippines
Development Innovation Marketplace. News &Broadcast. The World Bank
Group. 2006
http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/NEWS/0,,contentMDK:209496
63~pagePK:34370~piPK:34424~theSitePK:4607,00.html
13. Power ,Kathryn M.Ed. After the Crisis: Healing from Trauma after Disaster.
The National GAINS Center and The Center on Women, Violence and Trauma
Expert Panel Meeting/Opening Remarks. Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Mental Health Information
Center. U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. April 24, 2006
http://www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/newsroom/speeches/042406.asp
14. HHS Awards $600,000 in Emergency Mental Health Grants to Four States
Devastated by Hurricane Katrina. U.S. Department of Health & Human
Services. September 13, 2005
http://www.samhsa.gov/news/newsreleases/050913_hhs.htm
15. Medeiros, Marcelo and Costa, Joana. Poverty among women in Latin America:
feminization or overrepresentation?. International Poverty Center. United
Nations Development Programme. Working Paper number 20. May, 2006.
http://www.undp-povertycentre.org/newsletters/WorkingPaper20.pdf
17. Baker, Alice [editor]; Clay, Edward J.; Benson, Charlotte. Understanding the
Economic and Financial Impacts of Natural Disasters. Disaster Risk
Management Series. The World Bank Group. 2004 http://www-
wds.worldbank.org/external/default/main?
pagePK=64193027&piPK=64187937&theSitePK=523679&menuPK=64187510
&searchMenuPK=64187511&theSitePK=523679&entityID=000012009_200404
20135752&searchMenuPK=64187511&theSitePK=523679
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and Natural Disasters; Strengthening Employment in Response to Crises,
Synthesis Report and Case Studies - Volume I: Supporting the Private Sector
and Social Partners in Response to Conflicts and Natural Disasters.2005
http://www.ruig-gian.org/research/projects/project.php?ID=22
19. A review of cross-cutting & other key issues: concept paper. Evaluations.
Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO) European Commission. 2004
http://ec.europa.eu/echo/evaluation/thematic_en.htm#crosscutting
20. Announcement about the National Conference on Disaster Planning for the
Carless Society www.carlessevacuation.org
21. Post Tsunami bringing peace, responsibility and harmony between all races and
religions. Nest News. Nest. www.nestsrilanka.com
22. County, Lee. Youre your own Hurricane family plan. May 2006
http://www.adaboardswfl.org/hurricane/Family%20Hurricane%20Plan%20-
%20Lee%20County%20-%20Master.pdf
24. Liton, Shah Alam. Integrating People with Disabilities Into Development
Programmes: Some Lessons From Oxfam-Gb, Bangladesh Asia Pacific
Disability Rehabilitation Journal Vol. 11 No. 1. 2000
http://www.dinf.ne.jp/doc/english/asia/resource/apdrj/z13jo0500/z13jo0511.html
25. Are you ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness (IS-22) US Federal
Emergency Management Agency. http://www.fema.gov/areyouready
26. Rehman, Shafiq ur. Further report (The situation of the earthquake on October
8th JICA Blog. October 26, 2005
http://www.jicafriends.net/archives/2005/10/further_reportt_1.html
27. Grenada, how to help. Storm Carib. Caribbean Hurricane Network 2004.
http://stormcarib.com/reports/2004/grenada_help.shtml
29. Mitigation for Persons with Disabilities: Fostering a New Dialogue. The
Sphere Project. Abstract. Haworth Press.
http://www.haworthpress.com/store/ArticleAbstract.asp
26
30. Disaster Mitigation for Persons with Disabilities. The National Center for An
Accessible Society.
http://www.accessiblesociety.org/topics/independentliving/disasterprep.htm
31. Blanck, Peter David. Disaster Mitigation for Persons with Disabilities:
Fostering a New Dialogue. Annenberg Washington Program. 1995
http://www.forcedmigration.org/sphere/pdf/common/annenberg/annenbergdisabili
ties.pdf
34. Lathrop, Douglas. Disaster! The National Center for An Accessible Society.
November, 1994.
http://www.accessiblesociety.org/topics/independentliving/disaster.htm
36. Hurricane Disaster Relief Efforts for People with Disabilities and Their
Families. Family Village. 2005 http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/katrina.html
39. Disabled People and Disaster Planning. Disabled People and Disaster
Planning" (DP2) http://www.citycent.com/dp2/
41. Earthquake Tips for People With Disabilities. Independent Living Resource
Center San Francisco. http://www.preparenow.org/eqtips.html
27
42. Executive Order: Individuals with Disabilities in Emergency Preparedness US
White House http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/07/print/20040722-
10.html
43. Kett Maria,, Stubbs Sue and Yeo Rebecca. Disability in Conflict and Emergency
Situations: Focus on Tsunami-Affected Areas. IDDC Research Report.
International Disability and Development Consortium. June 2005
http://www.disabilitykar.net/docs/thematic_conflict.doc
48. Individuals with Special Needs. Preparing and Planning. Federal Emergency
Management Agency http://www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/specialplans.shtm
49. Tsuk, Nir. Social Entrepreneurs on the Frontlines of the Kashmir Earthquake.
Ashoka. 2006 www.changemakers.net/journal/300510/tsuk.cfm
50. "Looking with a Disability Lens at the Disaster Caused by the Tsunami in South
East Asia". Australian Development Gateway.
www.developmentgateway.com.au/jahia/Jahia/lang/en/pid2254
51. Making an Inaccessible Shelter Accessible HELPU Fire and Life Safety. 2005
http://www.helpusafety.org/accessible.htm"
28
53. Humanitarian Response Review. An independent report commissioned by the
United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator & Under-Secretary-General for
Humanitarian Affairs, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
(OCHA) August, 2005. http://www.dgroups.org/groups/worldbank/Disaster-
Disability/docs/Humanitarian%5FResponse%5FReview%5F%28UN
%29%2Epdf?ois=no
55. Renee, John. Evacuation and Equity. A post-Katrina New Orleans diary.
Planning. Issue May 2006.
http://www.planning.org/planning/member/2006may/evacuation.htm
9. The Courage Handi-Ham System: Ham radio for people with disabilities
http://www.handiham.org
29
11. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
http://ochaonline.un.org/
17. Disasters Regional Information Centre for Latin America and the Caribbean-
CRID http://www.crid.or.cr
30
30. Rehabilitation International www.riglobal.org
48. CDS Research Activities International Disaster Planning. Centre for Disability
Studies. University of Leeds. http://www.leeds.ac.uk/disability-
studies/research.htm
31
50. Order of Malta http://www.orderofmalta.org/attmu.asp?idlingua=3D5
52. Nobody Left Behind. Disaster Preparedness for People with Mobility
Impairments. Research and Training Center on Independent Living at the
University of Kansas http://www.nobodyleftbehind2.org/
Other resources
1. Topics in Development. The World Bank Group. http://www.worldbank.org/topics
2. The World Bank and Civil Society. The World Bank Group.
http://www.worldbank.org/civilsociety Takes you to a page about how the Bank
works with civil society organizations (including NGOs);
32
4. Conflict Prevention and Reconstruction. Social Development. Topics. The World
Bank Group. http://www.worldbank.org/conflict Info on World Bank involvement
with conflict and reconstruction situations
5. Development Marketplace (DM). Grant. Business Center. The Wolrd Bank Group
http://www.worldbank.org/developmentmarketplace The Development
Marketplace is a way for NGOs to competitively apply for small grants to support
INNOVATIVE projects
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