A milestone for private sector engagement in disaster risk management in Fiji: Inclusion in the National Disaster Risk Management Act
This milestone is a testament to the growing importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening Fiji's disaster resilience.
The journey of the Fiji Business Disaster Resilience Council (FBDRC) has been one of perseverance, innovation, and strategic collaboration.
From its inception in 2016, under the umbrella of the Fiji Commerce and Employer Federation (FCEF) and with the support of the OCHA-UNDP Connecting Business initiative (CBi), the FBDRC has worked diligently to engage the private sector in Fiji's disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. A milestone achievement came in 2025 when the FBDRC was formally included in the National Disaster Risk Management (NDRM) Act, solidifying the private sector's role in national disaster risk management and further enhancing Fiji's resilience to climate-induced disasters.
What it looks like to be one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world
As one of the most disaster-prone countries, ranked 15th on the World Risk Index (2020), Fiji faces a significant challenge, with an average annual loss of USD 343.77 million, 8.82% of its GDP. Fiji was also affected by the Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, the strongest cyclone recorded in the Southern Hemisphere, with maximum wind speeds reaching 233 km/h and gusts peaking at 306 km/h. The economic toll of this event alone was estimated at USD 900 million, two thirds of which came from physical asset damage.
Climate projections further amplify these risks, with sea levels predicted to rise. El Niño events are expected to bring drier, cooler conditions, while La Niña events will likely result in wetter than normal conditions. These changes heighten the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and resilience strategies. Over the years, FBDRC has been a key player in disaster risk management, supporting recovery efforts such as during Cyclone Winston where private sector resources were mobilized to assist the government.
Business engagement in resilience in Fiji
These experiences have helped shape FBDRC's work in improving private sector resilience and coordination, ultimately leading to its formal recognition in Fiji's National Disaster Risk Management Act. This milestone is a testament to the growing importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening Fiji's disaster resilience, and comes after years of dedicated engagement with the Fijian National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and other key stakeholders.
"We have been working closely and strategically with the NDMO over the years, without pressing for formal recognition. Now, with this legal recognition, we can truly elevate our role in disaster risk reduction and climate change efforts," explains Karunesh Rao, Chair of the Business Disaster Resilience Council. "We're deeply grateful for the support provided by CBi, without whom we probably would not stand where we are today."
"We have been working closely and strategically with the NDMO over the years, without pressing for formal recognition. Now, with this legal recognition, we can truly elevate our role in disaster risk reduction and climate change efforts. We're deeply grateful for the support provided by CBi, without whom we probably would not stand where we are today." - Karunesh Rao, Chair of the Business Disaster Resilience Council
The pivotal moment came in late 2024 when Fiji's National Disaster Risk Management Bill was passed, officially recognizing the FBDRC within the legislative framework of disaster response and recovery. This formally acknowledged the essential role of the private sector in managing and mitigating disaster risks and highlighted the impact of FBDRC's tireless efforts over the years. In this context, the Act's passage was not only legal recognition but also a victory for inclusive, multi-stakeholder partnerships that blend the expertise and resources of both the public and private sectors.
With the formal recognition of the FBDRC within the NDRM Act, Fiji has set a global example for integrating the private sector into national disaster risk management frameworks. The Act is a testament to the power of collaboration, as it reflects years of hard work, determination, and partnerships between the private sector, government, and international organizations.
"The Government of Fiji acknowledges the important role that the private sector plays in not only reducing disaster related economic losses and preserving livelihoods, but also as an integral partner in enhancing national and community climate and disaster resilience through collaboration in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation,'' commented Mr. Napolioni Boseiwaqa, Acting Director of the Fijian NDMO.
"The Government of Fiji acknowledges the important role that the private sector plays in not only reducing disaster related economic losses and preserving livelihoods, but also as an integral partner in enhancing national and community climate and disaster resilience through collaboration in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation." - Mr. Napolioni Boseiwaqa, Acting Director of the Fijian NDMO
The journey of the FBDRC from its launch in 2016 to its recognition in the NDRM Act of 2024 reflects the evolution of private sector engagement in disaster risk management. As FBDRC moves forward, the Council will continue to play an essential role in strengthening Fiji's resilience to future disasters, ensuring that the private sector remains a proactive and strategic partner in disaster risk reduction and recovery efforts.
In celebration of these achievements, FBDRC and CBi are poised to further amplify their impact, working hand-in-hand with the Fiji government to develop innovative solutions for disaster resilience, while also contributing to the broader efforts in the Pacific region. This collaborative approach ensures that the private sector's contributions are not only recognized but effectively harnessed in the fight against climate change and natural disasters.