ISLAMABAD: In an attempt to address challenges of disaster risks and vulnerability, the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) and International Rescue Committee (IRC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
This initiative marks a significant collaboration between the leading public sector entity and IRC, a global humanitarian organization, says a press release.
Pakistan faces some of the highest disaster risk levels in the world, ranked 11 out of 193 countries by the 2023 World Risk Report.
The country also has high exposure to flooding, including flash and coastal as well as exposure to tropical cyclones and drought. The disaster risk in Pakistan is further exacerbated by its social vulnerability. Pakistan’s vulnerability ranking (37 out of 191) is driven by its high rates of multidimensional poverty.
“The scope of this collaboration encompasses joint efforts in strengthening community-based disaster risk management/reduction models, the outlook for anticipatory actions.
“This includes consultations on innovative programmes and policy ideas for strengthening resilience in communities, civil society organizations (CSOs), and relevant institutions. NDRMF and IRC will leverage their partner networks to foster collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The organizations further commit to share technical assistance for developing a repository of best practices on resilience.”
The organizations will engage in public profiling and awareness programs to address issues exacerbating climate adaptation and resilience markers. This would entail co-creating evidence pieces for informed decision making, programming and potential avenues of technology transfers as well as to disseminate research findings to build a consistent, coherent national to global narrative.
In a joint statement, Bilal Anwar, CEO NDRMF, and Shabnam Baloch, country director IRC, underscored the critical significance of collaborative initiatives, tackling the multifaceted challenges presented by climate change and natural disasters specifically within the context of Pakistan.
They recognized the potential of the Pakistani youth as catalysts for positive change and committed in engaging them in the co-creation of solutions. They highlighted the importance of youth engagement at the grassroots level, ensuring that the perspectives and innovative ideas of the youth are integral to initiatives undertaken by NDRMF and IRC.
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