New tool measures vulnerability to disasters in Europe
A new, cross-scale vulnerability indicator, was developed for European disaster risk assessment. The indicator provides insights into regions' susceptibility to disasters at different administrative levels.
The report "Measuring Vulnerability: Cross-Scale Approach for European Disasters" highlights vulnerability's significance in assessing disaster risk and emphasizes reducing vulnerability as an opportunity to mitigate disaster impacts.
The composite indicator consists of four dimensions: social, economic, political, and environmental. It captures vulnerability to disasters across administrative levels (Country, NUTS2 and NUTS3), facilitating a comprehensive understanding of vulnerability in Europe and allows its monitoring over time.
The vulnerability index, derived from the indicator, integrates the four dimensions within a multi-level framework. The report utilizes data from the Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Centre (DRMKC) Risk Data Hub (RDH), supporting disaster risk assessment in Europe.
The report explains the theoretical framework of vulnerability, discusses measurement approaches, and presents sub-indices at regional and national levels.
Visual maps – as well as an interactive dashboard - illustrate vulnerability distribution across Europe and its evolution over time. Mediterranean and Eastern European countries display higher vulnerability, but variations exist within each country at the sub-national level.
The development of this vulnerability indicator can provide a very relevant contribution to effective disaster risk management and resilience-building efforts. It can provide decision-makers with essential information for prioritizing risk reduction measures.
For more information, access the full report or explore the interactive dashboard.