Challenges in Implementing Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in Poland

Krzysztof Goniewicz,Frederick M. Burkle

doi:10.3390/ijerph16142574

Abstract

Currently, weather conditions and extreme weather are becoming more frequent and more intense. Along with climate change, the vulnerability of society and individual regions to the risk of various types of threats also increases. The objectives of “The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030”, are the first global political frameworks of the United Nations program designed for the period post-2015. The original priority objectives of the Framework are: Understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk, investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience, and enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response, and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction. The provisions contained in the document are an essential step towards building global political coherence with an apparent reference to health, development, and climate change. The article is briefly reporting current Disaster Risk Reduction related programs and policies in Poland, contributions as part of The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction implementation, and its challenges.

Highlights

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR) is the first major agreement since the Yokohama Strategy (1994) and the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–2015)
IT System of the Country’s Protection Against Extreme Hazards (Polish ISOK) aims to contribute to the resolution or minimization of several issues related to crisis resource management in Poland, with a particular focus on flood risks. These correspond to SFDRR Priorities 1 and 3
The project is designed to assess vulnerability to climate change and plan adaptation activities to counter the identified threats in cities with over 100,000 residents. This currently represents the only initiative of this type in Europe in which the ministry supports local authorities in coordinating activities adapting to the effects of climate change

Summary

Introduction

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR) is the first major agreement since the Yokohama Strategy (1994) and the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–2015). Multiple studies indicate the need to implement various strategies to reduce damage caused by natural phenomena, such as heavy rain, floods, frost, heat waves, droughts, forest fires, storms, and hailstorms These strategies must be implemented at various levels of management including grassroots activities of local communities. Whereas central prevention and the investment in technical protective infrastructure and activities dominate in Poland today, there is a lack of communication with local communities and enterprises in the period preceding disasters This includes the implementation of solutions by individuals and small businesses, as well as informal education conducted locally, and more extensive formal education in the scope of risk, and the consequences of natural disasters. It is said that “On the side of the State, there is a need to reduce ad-hoc ex-post actions and increase the pressure to develop long-term, cost-effective solutions in cooperation with the insurance industry” [4]

Cross-Sectoral Approaches

Implementation

IT System of the Country’s Protection against Extreme Hazards

RescEU

Urban Adaptation Plans

Government Centre for Security Alert

Limitations of a Study

Findings

Conclusions