Disaster preparedness and human security

Hydrometeorological natural disasters have increased in intensity and number within recent years. They are measured by the number of its victims and the amount of damage to nature that are the most dangerous for humans. The most affected are poor populations who are highly vulnerable and socially marginalised in urban areas and do not have concrete alternatives. Whether such (extreme) natural events become disasters, depends on a rule by many socioeconomic and political factors that determine how vulnerable a country, specific region or society is. These include primarily growing populations, urbanization, social marginalization and the emergence of mega cities.

Alexander Carius, from adelphi, was commissioned by the GTZ Department for Disaster Risk Management with an exposé that examines how disaster preparedness can provide human security. Human security is based on an expanded concept of security, which includes the protection of people and safeguarding their livelihoods. Thus, it should be considered whether a consulting portfolio for the GTZ on this subject would be useful.