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Haiti Approves National Risk and Disaster Management Plan to Boost Resilience

In a significant step towards creating a more resilient region, the Government of Haiti has approved the National Risk and Disaster Management Plan 2019-2030. This plan is the result of an inclusive, multisectoral, and participative process that aims to promote sustainable and inclusive development while taking into account the country’s multi-risk and recurring context of natural disasters.

Aligning with International Frameworks

The plan calls for a resilient perspective in Haiti, aligning with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and its target E. This framework aims to significantly increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies by 2020.

Key Features of the Plan

  • The plan takes into account Haiti’s multi-risk context, exacerbated by climate change and multidimensional poverty.
  • It aims to reduce vulnerability and improve preparedness for disasters through the active participation of public and private institutions at national, decentralized, and community levels.
  • The plan promotes principles of gender equity and accountability.

Implementation and Support

The adoption of the plan represents a unique opportunity for all partners to advance a preventive program in a coordinated manner. Efforts will be made to capitalize on this moment by implementing a comprehensive program with strategies for both the private and public sectors, including:

  • Well-identified responsibilities and institutional mechanisms
  • A monitoring and evaluation system at different stages

The plan has been made possible with the support of the United Nations, particularly UNDP and UN-Women, as well as financial support from USAID/OFDA and the World Bank.

Regional Significance

Haiti joins a set of countries in the Americas and the Caribbean to develop and approve a national disaster risk reduction strategy and/or plan, representing an important step for the region. Haiti has been one of the most affected countries in terms of economic losses (17.5% of GDP) by natural disasters over the past 20 years.

Conclusion

The National Risk and Disaster Management Plan 2019-2030 marks a significant step towards creating a more resilient Haiti. By endorsing this document, Haiti is committed to strengthening its resilience collectively and inclusively, considering principles of gender equity and accountability.