Kingdom’s Strategy: Strengthening Saudi Capabilities to Face Disasters
As a nation, Saudi Arabia has always displayed remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. The Kingdom launched a new national strategy to bolster its capabilities even further, specifically in the realm of disaster management. This article explores the various facets of this strategy and its potential impact on the Kingdom’s disaster management framework.
Advent of New Strategy
On October 13, 2023, Saudi Arabia unveiled a new national strategy to enhance the country’s ability to confront disasters. This strategic plan places the Kingdom within the active international system working towards disaster risk reduction. It outlines the Kingdom’s relationship with the global community in areas of cooperation, coordination, and knowledge exchange.
Aligning with Global Goals
The strategy’s vision, mission, and objectives tie closely with the Arab strategy for disaster risk reduction and sustainable development goals. It underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to work in tandem with international efforts aimed at protecting the environment, managing disasters, and mitigating their effects.
“The national strategy seeks not just to respond to disasters, but to prevent them.”
Role of Local Community
Central to this strategy is the activation of the local community’s role. The plan seeks to raise citizens’ and residents’ awareness and enhance their participation in disaster risk reduction activities, particularly those most susceptible to their effects, such as women, the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
Global Recognition
On October 13 each year, the international community celebrates the International Day for Disaster Reduction. This annual event serves as a reminder of the importance of measures to prevent natural disasters and major accidents and mitigate their effects. It encourages initiatives, policies, and programs to build societies capable of confronting disasters.
United Nations Involvement
The commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Reduction began in 1989 following a call from the United Nations General Assembly. It is a tool for educating people and promoting a global culture on how to take action to reduce the risk of exposure to disasters.
“Disasters are not just to be managed but prevented.”
Saudi Arabia’s Pioneering Role
Saudi Arabia’s national strategy reinforces the Kingdom’s pioneering role in disaster risk reduction. By highlighting efforts to protect communities from the risks of climate change disasters, developing new financing mechanisms, and providing the required data to ensure successful disaster management, the strategy promotes initiatives and programs aimed at building resilient societies.
Role of Citizens
The strategy underscores the importance of citizen participation in activities aimed at reducing disaster risks. It aims to promote a culture of prevention of disasters and enhance international cooperation to provide the necessary coordination for exchanging experiences related to environmental protection, disaster avoidance, and the reduction of their effects.
“Citizens’ participation is crucial in disaster management.”
Legacy of the United Nations
The celebration of the International Day for Disaster Reduction started in 1989 under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of disasters.
Future of Disaster Management
Saudi Arabia’s national strategy marks a significant step forward in the Kingdom’s approach to disaster management. As global climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of natural disasters, the role of strategies like these will only become more critical. By prioritizing prevention, community involvement, and international cooperation, Saudi Arabia is setting a powerful example for other nations to follow.
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