Advancing disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction as a catalyst for equitable social development
Room 5
Time
13:15-14:30
Background
As the 2030 Agenda enters its final stretch, only 17% of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are currently on track. Disasters, worsened by climate change, fragility, and social inequalities, are threatening to undo decades of development progress. Persons with disabilities are among the most adversely affected in an emergency, sustaining disproportionately higher rates of morbidity and mortality, and at the same time being among those least able to have access to emergency support. Yet they are often excluded from disaster risk governance, planning, and recovery efforts. This exclusion reflects broader structural barriers and systemic forms of discrimination that undermine efforts to build resilient and just societies.
According to the survey conducted by UNDRR in 2023, more than half of persons with disabilities in developing countries cannot evacuate without difficulty and are rarely included in preparedness planning. Despite a decade of global advocacy and policy development the 2023 Global Survey on Persons with Disabilities in Disasters reveals limited progress in ensuring inclusive disaster risk reduction. The findings underscore a persistent gap between policy intentions and practical implementation, with persons with disabilities continuing to face disproportionate risks and barriers during disasters.
Objective
This event will:
- Highlight the critical linkages between disability inclusion, DRR, and social development.
- Showcase practical examples of disability-inclusive DRR at national and local levels. E.g. first results of Resilient and Inclusive Cities Hub supported by Global Disability Fund in Philippines
- Promote inclusive policymaking, use of assistive technology, data systems, and financing tools that enable persons with disabilities to lead resilient, empowered lives.
- Build momentum for the Political Declaration to reflect strong commitments to inclusive DRR in advancing equitable and inclusive social development.
Speakers
Opening Remarks: Paola Albrito, Director, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
Panel Discussion:
- Samuel G. Aquino, Head, Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), City of Baguio, Philippines
- Marvin Kristian B. Arias, Planning Officer, Office of Civil Defense, Philippines
- Esther Nagetey, Youth Fellow, International Disability Alliance
- Pascal Bijleveld, CEO, ATScale Partnership
- Miguel Barreto, UN Resident Coordinator and Representative of the UN Secretary General in Guatemala
Closing Remarks: Ola Abualghaib, Director, UN Global Disability Fund
Moderator: Stefanie Dannenmann-Di Palma, External Relations, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction