EUROPEAN COMMISSION PROVIDES 2 MILLION FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS

armradio.am
25.12.2009 13:10

The European Commission has allocated 2 million for disaster
preparedness in Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan. These countries
regularly and increasingly experience natural phenomena such
as landslides, mudslides, floods and earthquakes. This aid will
strengthen the capacities of local and national authorities to better
prepare and to cope with such disasters. The funds will be channelled
through the European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid department under
the responsibility of Karel De Gucht.

The funding aims at increasing resilience and reducing the
vulnerability of local communities and institutions by supporting
strategies which enable them to better prepare for, mitigate and
respond to natural disasters. The projects will facilitate the
coordination and exchange of knowledge among national and regional
authorities.

They will also provide basic know-how in disaster management;
training, and early warning systems, and will promote awareness
campaigns among the local communities, combined with practical
exercises in evacuation, mock drills and dry-run rehearsals. In some
areas, small-scale infrastructure works and services will also be
financed. Women, children and vulnerable groups such as the disabled
and ethnic minorities will be especially targeted.

Commission-funded humanitarian aid projects are implemented by
non-governmental relief organizations, specialized UN agencies and
the Red Cross societies.