The European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction, which will be held from November 6 to 8 in Budva, will bring together relevant institutions from Europe and Central Asia in order to work together on disaster risk reduction and mitigating the consequences of climate change, as well as other threats that endanger the well-being of the population.
This was announced by the deputy head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Sebastien Penzini, after the second meeting of the Working Group for organizing the European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction, which was organized by the Directorate for Protection and Rescue of the Ministry of the Interior, it was reported from PR Center.
Penzini said that the risk landscape in Europe and Central Asia is rapidly changing.
"We are witnessing the disasters that struck Poland and Romania a few days ago, and it is clear that no country is immune to such events. That is why it is crucial that all relevant institutions and countries come together to discuss prevention measures, which are necessary to reduce impact of climate change in this region," said Penzini.
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He especially praised Montenegro, which stands out as a leader in disaster risk reduction and is actively working on the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Penzini also praised the efforts of Montenegro, which is taking the initiative and inviting 55 member states to gather in Budva to discuss these important topics during the European Forum on Disaster Risk Reduction.
"In this way, the countries of Europe and Central Asia can jointly reduce the risks and mitigate the consequences of climate change and other dangers that threaten the well-being of the population in this region," added Penzini.
According to him, the key thing is that disaster risk reduction is multidisciplinary in nature.
"We cannot expect risk reduction if we do not take into account the specific needs of different communities, especially the most vulnerable groups, such as children, youth, women and people with disabilities. What UNDRR is trying to achieve, in cooperation with Montenegro on this regional platform, is bringing together all stakeholders to ensure that these communities are included in the decision-making process and the planning of risk reduction measures," explained Penzini.
He also noted that, despite the progress made within the SENDAI framework, which tracks results in this area, there is still room for improvement.
"For example, the number of national strategies for risk reduction has increased significantly, and Montenegro is among the leaders in this matter. However, risk management remains fragmented. It is necessary for the ministries to communicate better and to adopt an integrated approach," Penzini pointed out.
He added that while risk assessments in Europe and Central Asia have improved, the use of data and new technologies is still not at a satisfactory level when it comes to responding to changing risks.
"We must increase the use of satellite images and all available data that can help predict future disasters, understand vulnerabilities and respond more effectively to challenges," concluded Penzini.
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