Young Professionals For Disaster Risk Reduction

CRID - Regional Disaster Information Center Latin America and the Caribbean

2010-01-20T23:58:00.003Z

Accessible in English or Espanol, CRED offers disaster information on Latin America and the Caribbean.
Currently, it has strong list of links to articles and resources on the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

Prevention Web's Events Calender

2010-01-20T23:53:00.002Z

For training, for events, for conferences, check out the Prevention Web's Calender to see what's up. This is a great resource to find conferences and meetings in particular which, even if you can't attend, you can always follow up on for proceedings, outcomes and participant lists.

Building Resilient Cities - Contribute to the Campaign!

2010-01-20T23:26:00.002Z

As an outcome of the ISDR-hosted conference 'Building a Local Government Alliance for Disaster Reduction', and the resulting Incheon Declaration, a Build Resilient Cities campaign has been launched. You can join in the discussions, and contribute information on your communities and other insights by signing up to Prevention Web's relevant group here.

Nepal Disaster Watch Newsletter

2010-01-20T02:03:00.002Z

Supported in part by ActionAid, the Nepal Disaster Watch Newsletter is an online source for info not only on disasters in Nepal, but also perspectives on other disasters.

The resource also provides links to resources and local issues.

Global Networking Conference - Jan 25-27 2010

2010-01-20T01:28:00.003Z

The 'Views from the Frontline' programme, on lessons learnt in DRR, will be reviewed in a conference from the 25th to 27th of January 2010 in London. Conference participants include practitioners and academics, as well as organizational representatives.

The workshop will be streamed live online, and there will be opportunities to contribute to online discussions, through the Global Network website.

Logging on to contribute will be a necessary step. A link to download the conference programme is also available here.

Safer Homes, Stronger Communities (publication)

2010-01-20T01:15:00.005Z

A new handbook has been released on reconstruction after natural disasters (which can be downloaded here) and a parallel website (available http://www.housingreconstruction.org/housing/) has been set up to share dialogues on the handbook, experiences with reconstruction and other stories from the field.

Not only is the content of both handbook and website useful, their pairing is a unique initiative. Other similar publications might consider taking the same approach to allow practitioners and other users to extend the reach and usefulness of their publications.

From AlertNet: YOUR TURN TO ASK: Reducing risk in a world of disasters

2009-05-14T14:59:00.003+01:00

AlertNet has put out a final push to give those interested a chance to put questions forward to Margareta Wahlstrom -- the chief of the U.N.'s International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.
This is an excellent opportunity to have a voice, in relation to DRR, with a top voice of the field....
You can read about the initiative here, and also post a comment on the same website, which will be viewed through today to tomorrow Friday May 15th (apologies for the late notice -- this just came to my attention).
In any case, if you miss the chance to post a question directly, AlertNet will be posting replies on their website AND be sure to check out the 2009 Global Assessment Report which will launch on the 17th of May.

Article on Sri Lanka's Mass Alert Emergency Warning System

2009-05-03T12:12:00.002+01:00

ICT4D, an interesting blog from Sri Lanka on information and communication for development, published a post earlier this year on Sri Lanka's Disaster Emergency Warning Network (DEWN). The article briefly discusses relevant partners, and how the network functions. It will be interesting to hear how DEWN works in action, but for now, it's an excellent example of private sector involvement being used in a positive and effective manner.

Insitute for Global and Community Resilience

2009-05-03T12:05:00.002+01:00

The Institute for Global and Community Resilience's programming and educational initiatives focuses on linkages between DRR and sustainable community development. Their main website has quite a few useful resources for students and practitioners, including a virtual bookshelf on relevant resources, information on their own scholarships for DRR-related programs and internships, as well as a link to their blog, BounceBack.

Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction

2009-05-03T11:49:00.002+01:00

The Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction has updated its website to include not only more content, but also a Member Area. The network also has an interesting project on 'Views from the Frontline', which is a participatory survey with the goal of understanding the extent to which key DRR indicators are changing as a result of the HFA (Hyogo Framework for Action. The initial review of their findings is underway.

COHAB Initiative

2009-05-03T11:41:00.002+01:00

The http://www.cohabnet.org/ is an international programme of work on human well-being and sustainable development. They have a component on disaster prevention, relief and recovery which strongly ties into discussions on ecosystems and their role in DRR.
Their resources page contains links to not only their own initiative reports, but also to dialogues on the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and COP8 proceedings.

Climate Change and Children

2009-05-03T11:35:00.002+01:00

Eldis has launched new publications related to children and climate change, available in the climate change section of their website.

The latest is on children as risk communicators and agents of change, with examples from the Philippines and El Salvador. It's well worth a read for the perspective it takes on children and the space of their voices in policy.

There is also a link to the 2008 UN Children's Fund report on the impact of CC on children, as well as leads to other child-focused materials.

New IDS Bulletin 'Poverty in a Changing Climate'

2008-12-18T02:20:00.000Z

From IDS:

The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) has just launched The IDS Bulletin 39.4 'Poverty in a Changing Climate'.

Climate change has become a mainstream development issue. Impacts are threatening poverty eradication efforts and climate change poses rights and equity questions. The latest IDS Bulletin links adaptation with a variety of insights and approaches from poverty and vulnerability to confront these challenges.

'Poverty in a Changing Climate' reframes the adaptation debate and puts forward a pro-poor adaptation agenda that acknowledges the differentiated and multidimensional nature of poverty for effective, efficient and equitable adaptation measures at all scales.

The issue brings together field practitioners, academics, researchers and policy makers who examine the theory and practice of adaptation through a range of poverty lenses.

*The linkages are examined between adaptation and major poverty arenas including chronic poverty, rights and social justice, pro-poor growth, pro-poor urban governance, asset-building and livelihood diversification.

*Practical lessons are drawn from disaster risk management, social protection, micro-finance, climate insurance, climate science and adaptation tools address conceptual and operational challenges for delivering a pro-poor adaptation agenda.

For more information visit http://tinyurl.com/povcca
The introduction chapter is attached to this email. Individual chapters can be requested from Marion Khamis at m.khamis@ids.ac.uk

This bulletin was supported by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and members of the Poverty and Adaptation Seminar Network<http://www.ids.ac.uk/go/research-teams/vulnerability-team/research-themes/climate-change/projects/poverty-and-adaptation-seminar-network> (PASNet).

Sasakawa Award for Disaster Reduction deadline 18 March 2009

2008-12-18T02:17:00.000Z

From UNISDR:

Reminder: Sasakawa Award for Disaster Reduction deadline 18 March 2009

More inclusive: Any member of the ISDR System - such as governments, NGOs, UN Agencies, Academic institutions, private sector groups or media organizations - can now nominate a candidate for the UN Sasakawa Award for Disaster Reduction.

Clear focus: The revisioned Sasakawa Award will recognize champions who have achieved real change in line with the Hyogo Framework for Action's strategic goals and priority areas. As well as recognizeing community-based work and leadership in scientific and technical innovation, the Award also seeks to recognize advocacy that has raised the public profile of disaster risk reduction.

Deadline is near: Nominees must submit their letter of nomination and completed applications to UNISDR by 18 March 2009.

The Sasakawa Award for Disaster Reduction will be awarded during the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, to be held in Geneva 15-19 June 2009. More submission and eligibility details are here: http://www.unisdr.org/sasakawa2009. Please send all submissions to isdr-sasakawa@un.org

ISDR Global NGO Network Publicatiom

2008-09-25T10:33:00.002+01:00

This summer, the second publication of the 'Global network of NGOs for DRR' was launched. The first pub is available here. It's definitely worth a look to gain more information on initiatives which link disasters, development and particularly poverty reduction.

Katrina revisited

2008-09-25T10:30:00.002+01:00

A posted response by Ilan Kelman this summer in the NGOFL-L emails on Katrina offers some interesting insights on standard challenges of relief operations.
Ilan's response is copied from the email here:

CNN Report - Supplies for Katrina Victims

The original report appears to have been basically factual, but does not tell the entire story. See other details at http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/06/15/fema.katrina.supplies and http://edition.cnn.com/2008/US/06/17/fema.supplies/index.html?iref=newssearch plus links from those pages to other items on this story--keeping in mind that these reports are still from CNN. However, I could not find any note of this incident on FEMA's website which could have given their side of the story.

The issues raised here are standard challenges of relief operations, which all NGOs need to be aware of, including:
-Inappropriate donations. See also http://oldforum.aidworkers.net/messages/261/10682.html?1110989783
-Corruption in relief operations.
-Inefficiency in relief operations--getting people what they need when they need it.
-The logistics challenges of bringing in, checking, and distributing appropriate and needed supplies. Perhaps PAHO's SUMA tool http://www.paho.org/English/DD/PED/suma.htm and http://www.paho.org/english/dd/pin/ptoday17_nov05.htm is useful?

We must never become complacent regarding relief operations, because especially as you note, despite its resources, transportation infrastructure, and experience with domestic and overseas disasters, the USA ought to be setting a better example. The task is not easy and does require training, planning, and dedication. As you write, it "Teaches us that emergency managers need to be, above all, humanitarians". With best wishes to everyone for continually trying to do better,

Ilan
http://www.riskred.org (Risk Reduction Education for Disasters)

Publication: Indigenous Knowledge for Disaster Risk Reduction

2008-09-25T10:28:00.001+01:00

A new publication on Indigenous Knowledge for Disaster Risk Reduction is available from ISDR. As they write:
"Even before we came up with high technology based early warning
systems, or standard operating procedures for response, numerous
local communities worldwide have prepared, operated, acted, and
responded to natural disasters using indigenous methods passed on
from one generation to the next.

The publication "Indigenous Knowledge for Disaster Risk Reduction:
Good Practices and Lessons Learned from experiences in the Asia-
pacific Region", produced with the assistance of the European Union,
aims to build awareness for indigenous knowledge as an effective tool
for reducing risk from natural disasters. By improving the
understanding of indigenous knowledge and providing concrete
examples of how it can be successfully used, this publication can help
all practitioners and policy makers to consider the knowledge hold by
local communities and act to integrate this wealth of knowledge into
future disaster-related work. "

The publication is available on their website here.

Subscribing to UNISDR HIghlights

2008-09-25T10:25:00.001+01:00

ISDR's monthly highlights newsletter outlines activity announcements in the field of DRR. You can subscribe, send inputs, or just get information on this publication by contacting: isdrhighlights@un.org

Job openings at IDS: Climate Change and Disasters Group

2008-04-29T05:06:00.000+01:00

Research Positions: IDS Climate Change and Disasters Group
Full time positions

The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) is a leading global institution for research, teaching and communications on international development, based at the University of Sussex.

We have a number of opportunities in the Climate Change and Disasters Group, representing a major expansion of the Institute's research on climate change.

* Research Fellows - Climate Change and Development (Grade 7-8: depending on experience) Ref 268.
* Research Fellows - Vulnerability and Poverty Reduction Team (Climate Change and Social Protection) (Grade 7-8: depending on experience) Ref 265.
* Knowledge Sharing Officer - Adaptation Knowledge Sharing in Africa (Grade 6: depending on experience) Ref 267.
* Research Officer - Children in a Changing Climate (Grade 6: depending on experience). Ref 269
* Research Officer - Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction (Grade 6: depending on experience). Ref 270.

The Group currently focuses on five thematic areas: International climate policy, pro-poor climate and disaster governance, climate change and social exclusion, organisational change and climate change knowledge services. The Group is engaged in a range of activities including policy-related research, advisory work, capacity-building, networking and developing innovative and accessible knowledge services.

Candidates with experience in linking work in climate change and social protection are particularly encouraged to apply for the research fellow posts within the Vulnerability and Poverty Reduction Team.

For all the positions, you will need to be flexible, willing to travel and able to manage a complex portfolio of projects with sometimes-conflicting priorities and deadlines. You will need to be both a team player and able to work independently, with excellent communication skills.

IDS offers attractive salaries, favourable holiday allowance, a flexible working ethos and membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme. The post is based in Brighton, Sussex.

OFFICIAL APPLICATIONS FORMS ONLY, CVs are not accepted

For further information and to download an application form please log on to
http://www.ids.ac.uk/go/about-ids/working-at-ids/current-vacancies

Alternatively to receive an electronic or hard copy please email Human Resources, hr@ids.ac.uk or call our confidential answer phone
01273-678682 [Int +44 1273-678682]

IDS values diversity and is committed to equal opportunities; applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates who meet the stated criteria.

Call for Good Practices for Public/Private Partnerships for DRR

2008-04-29T05:03:00.001+01:00

From UN/ISDR:

The UN/ISDR secretariat has issued a call for good practices and lessons learned that link disaster risk reduction and public private partnership. We are seeking examples of projects and initiatives across humanitarian, environmental and development sectors that promote positive changes to how public-private partnerships have strengthened resilience to disasters.

The resulting publication will potentially prove valuable for addressing future public-private partnerships in disaster risk reduction. We invite you to share with us your initiatives at community, national, regional or international levels. Guidelines for submissions are attached in English.

Submission deadline: all contributions should be sent by 31 May 2008.
Submit questions to Stefanie Dannenmann at dannenmann@un.org

Examples of already published Good Practices:

Gender Perspective: Working Together for Disaster Risk Reduction Good Practices and Lessons Learned, 2007
http://www.unisdr.org/eng/about_isdr/isdr-publications/09-gender-good-practices/gender-good-practices.pdf

Towards a Culture of Prevention: Disaster Risk Reduction Begins at School Good Practices and Lessons Learned, 2007
http://www.unisdr.org/eng/about_isdr/isdr-publications/11-education-good-practices/education-good-practices.pdf

Building Disaster Resilient Communities Good Practices and Lessons Learned, 2007
http://www.unisdr.org/eng/about_isdr/isdr-publications/06-ngos-good-practices/ngos-good-practices.pdf

Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

2008-04-29T05:02:00.000+01:00

From the Prevention Web Team:

The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is the main global forum on
disaster risk reduction.

At its first session in June 2007, it brought together representatives of
governments, UN agencies, regional bodies, international financial
institutions, civil society, the private sector and the scientific and
academic communities to raise awareness on disaster risk, to share
experience and to guide the ISDR system with a view to supporting countries
to implement the Hyogo Framework for Action.

The second session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is
scheduled to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, during the week of 15 - 19
June 2009.

Further information on the 2009 session will become available in the coming
months.
All relevant information on the Global Platform will be found at
http://www.preventionweb.net/globalplatform

Children, Youth and Environments Journal

2008-04-29T04:59:00.001+01:00

Colorado's Children, Youth and Environments Journal (a strong, specialized resource in itself) has an issue out on children and youth, and vulnerability to disasters. It's well worth checking out; of note is the compiled resource list.

Gender, Climate Change and Natural Disasters

2008-04-29T04:55:00.002+01:00

From Science Alert Australia/New Zealand, this is an article on gender, climate change and 'natural' disasters. It was circulated through the NGOFL-L Digest. While the findings in the report are not new, and often echo debates we have held for a decade, it brings back into discussions issues of gender and disasters...it also makes us ask why we have been having these discussions, without little follow-up in the form of action...

2008-02-29T04:32:00.005Z

KNOWLEDGE SHARING PLATFORM FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

From the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), Nepal:

"Please visit http://www.disasterpreparedness.icimod.org which is a Knowledge Sharing Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) practitioners. The website is community driven, and mainly serves as a dynamic online repository for materials such as publications, reports, articles, links and news related to disaster risk reduction. Anyone can share information and resources related to DRR, by writing to:

list-moderator@disasterpreparedness.icimod.org

We welcome you all to join our GROUP MAIL which facilitates knowledge-networking among more than 300 DRR practitioners. Please visit the following link to join the group: http://www.disasterpreparedness.icimod.org/dipecho-list.php

2008-02-29T04:27:00.003Z

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON CERTIFICATE IN TSUNAMI SCIENCE AND PREPAREDNESS

From the University of Washington:

"The University of Washington Extension (UWE) in conjunction with the
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has
developed a professional certification course in tsunami science and
preparedness. The next course offering will be June 16-27, 2008 at the
University of Washington in Seattle, Washington. The certification
program consists of three courses providing overviews of

(l) Tsunami Hazard Assessment

(2) Tsunami Warning Systems

(3) Tsunami Resilient Communities

Designed for planners, policy makers, emergency managers, scientists,
and engineers, the curriculum trains professionals to develop, establish
and maintain tsunami warning and preparedness systems at national,
regional and local community levels.

Program graduates receive: UWE/NOAA Professional Certification in
Tsunami Science and Preparedness; a DVD of all instructional materials;
templates for developing hazard assessments and community plans; and
access to an Alumni Network, including archives of additional tsunami
information and educational tools.

For more information on this certificate program visit

http://www.extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/tsp/tsp_gen.asp

If you have questions, please call 206-685-8936 in the greater Seattle
area or 1-800-506-1325, or e-mail extnadvising@extn.washington.edu.

2008-02-29T04:19:00.003Z

UN/ISDR HIGHLIGHTS

The January 2008 edition of the UN/ISDR Highlights is now available. To get on the mailing list for this, and other publications of the Global Network of NGOs for Disaster Reduction, sign up for their mailing list through their website at: http://www.unisdr.org/eng/partner-netw/ngos/rd-ngo-eng.htm

2008-02-29T04:17:00.003Z

REPORT ON 'POLITICAL ECONOMY OF BALI CLIMATE CONFERENCE: A ROADMAP OF CLIMATE COMMERCIALIZATION'

From the PRDI:

"Participatory Research and Development Initiative PRDI, Bangladesh.

PRDI, in association with the Equity and Justice Working Group Bangladesh, has published a policy discussion paper based on the key elements of UNFCCC Climate Change Conference held in Bali, Indonesia, December 2007.

This policy discussion paper critically reviewed the Bali climate negotiation; intended to provide an insight to the readers, especially developing country’s policy makers, negotiators, on the recent dimension of mitigating climate change impacts. This discussion paper tries to cancel out the concept of ‘climate commercialization’ on which Bali Climate talks eventually rounds, and justifies the urgency of the reduction of green house gases emissions that should be reflected in the post Kyoto global policy regime on climate change. It is expected that this policy discussion paper will be a useful document for the developing country policy makers, environmental NGOs, CSOs in formulation policies and positions on sustainable development in the context of the climate change negotiation."

To obtain a copy of this report, contact Mr. Md Shamsuddoha at: doha_shams@hotmail.com

2008-02-29T04:12:00.003Z

THE ECLIPSE

The Eclipse is a publication which focuses on issues relating to Africa and Disaster Management. They circulate their publication via email, each with a unique theme (the latest is on the health sector and disaster risk reduction).

For more information on the publication, visit: www.theeclipseafrica.com

To be added to the Eclipse mailing list, contact: aramide.adebola@gmail.com and put 'subscribe' in the message line.

2008-02-29T04:08:00.003Z

UK - SOUTH ASIA YOUNG SCIENTISTS AND PRACTITIONERS SEMINAR ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND DISASTER IMPACT REDUCTION

This is a call for papers for an interesting initiative coming up in Nepal. For more information on the seminar, check out the official website at:

http://www.delphebangladesh-nepal3r.org/seminar2008/

2008-02-29T04:05:00.002Z

LINKS TO ACTION AID'S INTERNATIONAL PEOPLE'S REPORTS

1. Disaster Risk Reduction in the post-tsunami context:
http://www.actionaid.org/assets/pdf%5CDisaster%20Risk%20Reduction%
20post%20tsunami.pdf

2. Homestead Land and Adequate Housing in the post-tsunami context:
http://www.actionaid.org/assets/pdf%5CHomestead_Land_and_Adequate_housing_post-tsunami%5B1%5D.pdf

3. Fisheries-Based Livelihoods in the post-tsunami context:
http://www.actionaid.org/assets/pdf%5CFisheries_based_livelihoods_post_tsunami%5B1%5D.pdf

4. Violence against women in the post-tsunami context:
http://www.actionaid.org/assets/pdf%5CVAW%20Peoples'%20Report%202007.pdf

2008-02-29T03:55:00.002Z

WORLD CONFERENCE ON DISASTER MANAGEMENT

From the WCDM:

The Canadian Centre for Emergency Preparedness in partnership with Diversified Business Communications Canada is proud to present the 18th World Conference on Disaster Management (WCDM) in Toronto from June 15-18, 2008.

The 2008 WCDM theme is:

“Resiliency - Individual, Community & Business”

Resiliency is the capacity for individuals, communities and business to be able to adopt and continuously evolve to the challenges we face in our rapidly changing society.

The 18th WCDM will explore individual, community and business resiliency as well as how the three exist as one. Our speakers will take the “complexity” out of understanding how resiliency plays an integral part of their operations.

Hear experts from Canada, the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany and New Zealand, speak on topics such as:

* Formula for Regional Resilience
* Building Disaster Resilient Communities Through Community Partnerships Focused on Public Education
* People, Our Most Precious Resource: Critical Role for Recovery and Opportunities to Build Resilience in Communities
* Creating Global Resilience: Pushing the Boundaries ->From Both Ends of the World
* Risky Business: Resilience in a Digital Age
* Health Care: A Resilient Community During a Disaster
* Preparing to Bounce Back
* Designing, Engineering, and Leading Resilient Teams
* Resilience and Crisis-Prone Organizations: A Holistic Approach to Business Resilience
* Communities Respond - Building Community Resilience Through Self Help and Mutual Aid in Urban and Rural Environments
* Climate Change Risk Management and Resilience

These are just some of the sessions available at the 18th WCDM. For the full conference at a glance please click here or visit the web site at www.wcdm.org

2008-01-22T09:46:00.001Z

EXTENSION OF DEADLINE FOR IDRC CONFERENCE SUBMISSIONS

The IDRC has extended their deadline for submissions for this year's conference (to be held in Davos, Switzerland) to February 29th, 2008.

For more information on making submissions, or on the conference itself, please visit: www.idrc.info

2007-12-07T03:17:00.001Z

International Disaster and Risk Conference

IDRC Davos 2008 has now issued their invitiation for interested individuals to submit abstracts and proposals for special sessions or pre and post conference activities.

The conference motto is “Public-private partnership – Key for integral risk management and climate change adaptation”

The formal conference announcement reads as follows:

IDRC Davos 2008, to be held in Davos, Switzerland from August 25th to August 29th, 2008. After a successful IDRC Harbin 2007 conference, IDRC in its biennial process is back again in Davos.

IDRC Davos 2008 is expected to bring together over 1.300 interested individuals, policy makers, risk managers, scientists and other risk experts from politics, governments, science, the private and civil sector, NGOs, etc. to focus on the array of risks facing society today and on effective strategies to manage and reduce these risks and disasters.

The conference will continue the dialogue between the different risk areas and their stakeholders, but also serve as a bridge between science, risk governance, technology perspectives, problem solving and capacity building.

We invite you to visit our web-site www.idrc.info where you will find all relevant information about IDRC and for abstract and proposal registration. Please transfer this announcement also to other interested colleagues and friends.

---

2007-11-27T09:15:00.000Z

The Emergency Capacity Building Project

See below for information on the ECB Project -- an interesting effort which has a website full of information and reports on their projects.

--

The Emergency Capacity Building (ECB) Project, a collaborative effort of
seven major humanitarian agencies (CARE International, Catholic Relief
Services, the International Rescue Committee, Mercy Corps, Oxfam GB,
Save the Children, and World Vision International), has marked the
International Day for Disaster Reduction with a feature on its website
(http://www.ecbproject.org), highlighting the publication of Pilot Project
Reports from three DRR country pilots in Indonesia, Guatemala and
Ethiopia (http://www.ecbproject.org/publications_3.htm).

ECB has also published an Overview Report (attached to this
message), summarizing key learning from the three pilots, setting that
learning in the context of other sector initiatives, and suggesting
practical ways forward in risk reduction work.

For further information, please visit http://www.ecbproject.org or email
info@ecbproject.org.

2007-11-27T09:13:00.000Z

Information on PreventionWeb

As forwarded to YPDR:

PreventionWeb is a new information service to increase knowledge on
disaster risk reduction (DRR) - www.preventionweb.net

For the first time, a website will provide a common tool for both
specialists and non-specialists interested or working in the area of
disaster risk reduction to connect, exchange experiences and share
information. The site is a project of the secretariat of the UN
International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.

Content Wanted:

Prevention Web relies on content contributions from the DRR
community and includes: disaster risk reduction news, country reports,
publications, good practices, fact sheets, networks and communities,
and more. The beta release period will emphasize content
development by calling for contributions from the community at large –
UN, international, non-governmental, academic, and civil society
partners.

Linking up the DRR community:

Making links between disaster risk reduction initiatives is the best way
to expose our collective efforts. Please link to PreventionWeb, and we
will link back to you.

Content Syndication:

PreventionWeb is designed to distribute content in many ways, and
offers the possibility of automatically placing content such as an event
calendar on partner sites.

Site Testing:

PreventionWeb is now in a beta testing period, and will be conducting a
series of usability tests over the next few months. We look forward to
your participation and comments.

Watch and Listen to a site demo:

See a 5-minute online demo with audio commentary at:
http://www.preventionweb.net/english/about/

Explore and Comment:

Explore the project at: www.preventionweb.net
We welcome comments and suggestions to improve the service.

Contact:

Craig Duncan
Information Management Unit
UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction
Geneva, Switzerland
Email: duncanc@un.org
Tel: +41 22 917 8898

2007-11-27T09:04:00.001Z

Tearfund Climate Change Adaptation Report

Tearfund has released both their new Climate Change Adaptation report as well as their executive summary. Tearfund will be using this report for lobbying at the COP 13 conference in Bali next month.

To follow up on the issues raised by the paper, please do contact Sarah La Trobe,
Tearfund Senior Policy Officer – Environment and Disasters,
Sarah.LaTrobe@tearfund.org

You can also receive e-copies of the executive summary by emailing Sarah or YPDR.

2007-11-27T09:01:00.000Z

Why Advocate for Disaster Reduction

As sent to YPDR, please see the following information on a booklet by Tearfund and World Vision International on advocacy and DRR.
The booklet is available here.

--

For your information.

Tearfund and World Vision International, have produced a booklet for partners
on advocacy and DRR. The booklet is
aimed at organisations which are already involved in DRR, but have not yet
considered an advocacy approach. It sets out why advocacy on DRR is
important, why governments should be held accountable, and how civil society
can influence them. The booklet, available in English and French (and soon
also Spanish) can be found on the Tearfund website
http://tilz.tearfund.org/Research/Disaster+Risk+Reduction+reports/ . Hard
copies will be available in December.

For any further information, please contact Jessica Faleiro, Tearfund
(Jessica.Faleiro@tearfund.org).

2007-11-27T08:58:00.000Z

Linking Poverty Reduction and Disaster Management

The German Committee for Disaster Reduction has recently released an interesting publication on Linking Poverty Reduction and Disaster Management.

Their publications and information about their work are available online here.

2007-11-27T08:54:00.000Z

Call for Papers -- World Conference on Disaster Management

The World Conference on Disaster Management, run by the Canadian Centre for Emergency Preparedness (CCEP) has put out their second call for presentations for their conference, to be held in Toronto Canada in June 2008.
For more information, please visit the WCDM online.
Presentation abstracts are to be submitted by December 2, 2007.

2007-11-27T08:52:00.000Z

Geography Department Job Opportunities at King's College London

King's is looking for a lecturer in risks and hazards for their Geography department. For more information, please see:

http://www.jobs.ac.uk/jobs/FH472/Lecturer_in_Risk_and_Hazards_in_Geography/

2007-11-27T08:48:00.000Z

Job Opportunities from the Mission of the International Institute for Growth and Development

The following information was emailed to one of the YPDR members -- it may be of interest to those of you working for a postings with IIGD-USA.

The mission of The International Institute for Growth and Development
(IIGD-USA) is to help communities around the world address
environmental, economic, and social challenges to build a better
future shaped and shared by all.
IIGD focuses on social-economic development in countries through
projects ,research and contributions. Projects in countries are
focused on activities that support economic development and reduce
poverty (improve the social conditions.) The objective is to
facilitate development; enable and empower societies by skill
development in management, leadership, knowledge, technologies, and
businesses that leads to sustainable long term social and economic
development. And to do it all with charity and volunteer commitment of
experts.

Donor governments, private foundations, and African and international
organizations would support the IIGD programme, which has three
primary components: research, Growth and training. The IIGD Research
Programme uses a flexible approach towards improving the technical
skills of local researchers, allowing for regional determination of
research priorities and strengthening national institutions concerned
with economic policy research. The programme also fosters closer ties
between researchers and policy makers. The Training Programme supports
both master's and doctoral level studies in economics and helps
improve the capacities of departments of economics in public
universities across the continent. A comprehensive communications and
outreach strategy encourages the application of IIGD products to
economic policy making.

We are now recruiting qualified individuals into the following
positions to fulfill our setout goals.

The Institute seek to recruit highly qualified candidates for the
following positions:

1. Job Title: Country Director
Vacancy No: CD001-2007/IIGD
Deadline : January 15,2008
Reporting Date: ASAP
Duration of Job: Permanent
REMUNERATION:Circa US$143,650 + benefits package
Duty Station: Portugal,South Africa,Denmark,Canada,Luxembourg,Egypt and Dubai

General Description of Role:

In close cooperation with IIGD Senior Management, the Country Director
will have two primary responsibilities:
1. Overall management of IIGD's current program.
2. New Country development including overall proposal preparation and
submission for funding to potential donors such as USAID, UN
Organization, World Bank, Foreign Governments, European Union,
Foundations and private donors in Africa;

Main Responsibilities:

- Ensure effective and efficient management .
- Supervise and give guidance to program managers on project design,
implementation, evaluation, and personnel issues.
- Prepare detailed implementation plan, collect baseline data and
develop operational procedures for the implementation of the new
programs.
- Ensure compliance with IIGD and donors of operational and financial
policies and procedures and reporting requirements; track grant
spending.
- Coordinate all IIGD staff members for purposes of monitoring and
evaluation of all USG and international donor programs.
- Prepare monthly, semi-annual, and final program reports.
- Coordinate and maintain professional working relations with local
authorities, private organizations, and communities.
- Maintain good working relationships with donors, Government of Host
Country, and collaborating institutions, with frequent visits to
project sites and communities.
- Research and identify funding sources, proposal requirements, and
submittal deadline for new programs in Host Country.
- Write, edit, and proofread proposals to be submitted to donor
agencies and private funding sources.
- Secure new funding and extension funding for existing IIGD programs.
- Increase IIGD's local, national and international visibility through
public relations.
- Perform additional assignments as requested.

Minimum Qualifications:

- Minimum of 4 years management experience .
- Bachelor's degree required; Graduate degree preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to manage a series of complex, new and on-going
activities, as well as provide leadership in a collegial team environment.
- Fluent English; knowledge of french a plus.
- High degree of integrity and amiable disposition desirable in
building appropriate internal and external relationships.

Terms of Appointment
The appointment will be for an initial period of 5 years, renewable
thereafter annually. Benefits include housing allowance, paid home
leave travel, a pension scheme, life and health insurance, vehicle for
business and personal use, and free enrollment for dependent children
in international school

2. Job Title: Research Assistant
Vacancy No: RA002-2007/IIGD
Deadline : January 15,2008
Reporting Date: ASAP
Duration of Job: Permanent
REMUNERATION:Circa US$113,120 + benefits package
Duty Station: Egypt,Bahamas,Canada U.K , U.S.A and Luxembourg

Responsibilities:
Assist with basic research and project operations for small to large
research contracts. Primary responsibilities include background
research and performing literature search/review, abstracting and
synthesizing data, maintaining databases, project operations, and
assistance in preparing study
materials/reports/presentations/proposals.

Skill Prerequisites:
Good writing skills, strong organizational skills, knowledge of basic
research tools such as computerized literature searches, good
quantitative skills, knowledge of SAS or other statistical package a
plus.
Experience
in healthcare field preferred. Experience or course work in outcomes
research, epidemiology, public health, pharmacy, medicine, health care
policy, mathematical modeling, business, economics, statistics and
social sciences desired. Energetic self starters who can work with
minimal supervision on multiple projects. Candidates should have a
genuine interest in developing their career in outcomes research,
quality of life research, pharmacoeconomics, health economics, health
care policy, or other healthcare related disciplines.

Qualifications:
Bachelors degree required. 0-1 year experience in the field of
Developmental Research

3.Job Title: Senior Environmental Officer
Vacancy No: SEO003-2007/IIGD
Deadline : January 15,2008
Reporting Date: ASAP
Duration of Job: Permanent
REMUNERATION:Circa US$113,120 + benefits package
Duty Station: Bahamas,Canada,United Kingdom ,South Africa,and Luxembourg

Job Description

The Institute is seeking a conscientious individual to work in a
diversified industrial, municipal and private pollution abatement
program dealing with air pollution/water/sewage/waste management.
Duties will include:
conducting/reporting on inspections/investigations; preparing
technical reports; recommending remedial/legal action; ensuring
implementation of abatement programs; participating in law enforcement
activities; testifying in legal proceedings; dealing with the
public/municipal/industrial officials; participating in the
environmental response program; responsible for coordinating with the
Center and other relevant bodies with regard to implementation of
the International Technical Guidelines on Safety in
Biotechnology;undertaking other activities as requested by the
supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications:
Advanced knowledge of environmental legislation, guidelines, policies,
abatement procedures/programs and principles/practices of
industrial/municipal environmental controls; advanced knowledge of
theories, principles and practices of waste management; experience in
a field environment, meeting conflicting/changing deadlines; superior
interpersonal and demonstrated oral/written communication skills;
demonstrated presentation, project management and conflict resolution
skills; strong
analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills; ability to
prepare technical reports; working knowledge of computers/software

Terms of Appointment
The appointment will be for an initial period of 3 years, renewable
thereafter annually. Benefits include housing allowance, paid home
leave travel, a pension scheme, life and health insurance, vehicle for
business and personal use, and free enrollment for dependent children
in international school .

4.Job Title; MEDICAL OFFICER
Duty Station: Bahamas,Canada,United Kingdom,USA, Belgium and Luxembourg
Remuneration; REMUNERATION:Circa US$133,120 + benefits package
Duration of Job: Permanent
Vacancy No: MO004-2007/IIGD
Status: Permanent
Deadline : January 15,2008

Job Description

Clinical Duties:
Undertake day-to-day clinical duties, e. g. walk-in clinic,
emergencies, pre-placement and periodic medical examinations,
immunizations, etc. Refer staff to outside specialists as necessary
and follow-up with outside specialists. Provide health education and
participate in addressing work environment and occupational health
issues. Medico Administrative Duties: Liaise with U.N-Military
Medical Units in the mission and host-nation medical facilities.
Follow the IIGD-USA established policies and procedures regarding
medical clearances, sick leave and medical evacuations.
Deputise for a more senior Medical Officer during his/her absence.
Supervisory Administration:
Manage day-to-day mission medical support operations by ensuring
availability of supplies and proper functioning of medical equipment;
Ensure appropriate training programs are implemented in order to
maintain and develop the medical capabilities (e. g. health
education, HIV/AIDS prevention, first aid and CPR).
General: Work implies frequent interaction with the following: Staff
at large; staff within work unit; Staff counsellors; Senior
management
throughout the Organization; All specialised agencies; Military
Physicians; Physicians and representatives of Laboratories,
Pharmaceutical Companies, Medical Associations and Societies. Perform
other related duties as required

Competencies
Professionalism - Knowledge and hands on experience in clinical
medicine. Planning and organising - Ability to establish priorities
and to plan, coordinate and monitor own work plan and those under
his/her supervision. Teamwork - Strong interpersonal skills and
ability to establish and maintain effective working relations in a
multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect
for diversity Communication - Good interpersonal and oral and written
communication skills. Commitment to Continuous learning - Willingness
to learn to keep abreast of new developments in the medical field.
Technological awareness - Solid computer skills and good knowledge
of relevant medical databases.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education
Doctorate in Medicine. Residency in one of the medical specialties,
preferably internal medicine.

Work Experience
At least 4 years of practical experience in occupational health and
tropical medicine; general knowledge of worldwide health conditions,
health requirements and precautions.

Languages
Fluency in spoken and written English or French; knowledge of a second
official UN language is an advantage and sometimes a requirement.

Other Skills

The IIGD-USA shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men
and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of
equality in its principal and subsidiary organs.

Selection is based upon a competitive screening process. Consequently,
applicants meeting the basic requirements may not go through the
entire interview process. Candidates are evaluated on the basis of
academic credentials, related overseas and/or domestic development
professional experience, and other relevant factors.
Applications are screened for basic eligibility, such as: education,
and experience which demonstrates the applicant's ability to
accomplish professional development work.Following the screening, the
successful applicants for each category would be required to undergo
training in USA.

TO APPLY:
Qualified candidates may submit their applications, including a letter
of interest and completed Curriculum Vitae to IIGD, Washington
Office via email/Fax only to:
Dr. Fred Kissinger
Human Resources Unit
International Institute for Growth and Development
Email: jobs@iigd-org.site.tc OR
FAX: 1(206)-202-3415

Kindly indicate the vacancy number and Job title in the subject line
on your email when applying.This vacancy is open to male and female
candidates Worldwide .

Please note that IIGD staff members are international civil servants
subject to the authority of the Director-General and may be assigned
to any activities or office of the organization.

Sincerely Yours,
Magdaleine Jefferson
Human Resources Unit

2007-10-07T22:11:00.000+01:00

PERISHIP Grant Awards

National PERISHIP Awards are grants to be used towards research on "all aspects of natural and human-made hazards, risk and disasters in all disciplines". The program was established by the Natural Hazards Center at the University of Colorado at Boulder and the Public Entity Risk Institute with support from from the National Science Foundation and Swiss Re.

As the PERISHIP website notes: "The dissertations produced by the fellows will contribute to the body of knowledge in hazards research. Ultimately, the program will foster the development of hazards scholars who will expand the research and practitioner communities."

For further information, including program details and application deadlines, go to: http://thunder1.cudenver.edu/periship/

2007-10-07T22:08:00.000+01:00

The Eclipse - Influencing Disaster Management In Africa

A publication on DM in Africa, with a strong focus on the role of insurance, is now available from Aramide Adebola. To get a copy of the current edition of The Eclipse, you can either email YPDR at ypdrdavos@gmail.com or Aramide at aramideadebola@gmail.com

2007-10-07T22:06:00.001+01:00

Publication Launch: Towards a Culture of Prevention: Disaster Risk Reduction Begins at School – Good Practices and Lessons Learned’

On the International Day for Disaster Reduction (October 10th), the ISDR will be launching their publication -- Towards a Culture of Prevention. A preview of the contents is now available.

The full publication will be available on the same website from October 10th. It will include case studies and lessons learned from countries including Bangladesh, El Salvador, India, Nepal, Peru, the Philippines and Thailand.

2007-10-07T22:04:00.000+01:00

International Day for Disaster Reduction and Good Practices

The UN's International Day for Disaster Reduction is October 10th! Information on global activities is available on the ISDR website.

If you want to send information on your activity to be included on this site, send an email to: dokhlik@un.org with the subject: “International Day 2007".

2007-10-07T22:02:00.000+01:00

60th DPI/NGO Conference on Climate Change - Final Declaration

A conference outcome document from "Climate Change: How it impacts us all" is available through the UN's Department of Public Information (DPI) website.

2007-10-07T21:58:00.000+01:00

Proceedings of the first session of the Global Platform for DRR

The proceedings of the First session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction have been released! They are available online through the UN/ISDR website.

For more information on the Global Platform, you can also check out:

http://www.preventionweb.net/globalplatform

2007-08-28T05:24:00.000+01:00

ANNOUNCEMENT: PROVENTION WEBSITE SURVEY

The ProVention Consortium is conducting a survey about its website and other esources to better understand user needs and expectations. Please share your houghts and ideas by completing a brief survey, available at http://www.proventionconsortium.org/survey!

ProVention offers many resources and opportunities to young professionals in disaster management -- it is worth taking 10 minutes to complete this survey, to provide some feedback to their programming!

2007-08-28T05:16:00.000+01:00

ASIA & PACIFIC REGIONAL WORKSHOP ON EDUCATION FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

The ENDRR-L recently circulated this notice of a workshop in Bangkok on education for DRR:

Please see this announcement about this important conference Oct 8-10th in Bangkok. Hopefully those of you from the region already know about this and are making plans to attend.

Please consider this, then, a special invitation to all in the Asia & Pacific Region to please bring (or send) at least a couple of copies of your best drr education materials for display and collection. The materials will become part of the developing Global Online DRR Education Library, and will also be available for participants to review and respond to. PLEASE include games, toys, models for
children to experiment with.

Materials for display can be sent directly to:
Steven Usher, Senior Programme Assistant
Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
UNESCO
Second Floor
920 Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong
Bangok 10110
Thailand

If you are planning to attend the conference and have important experiences to share, you may want to follow up with the organizing committee members responsible for each section:
For integrating DRR Education into curricula please contact your
UNESCO National Commission or ADPC For informal and community-based education please contact IFRC (Michael Annear) Michael.annear@ifrc.org
For Safe School Construction please contact UNCRD (Bishnu Pandey) bishnu@hyogo.uncrd.or.jp
For planning for youth participants please contact UNICEF (Gary Ovington) govington@unicef.org

2007-08-28T05:08:00.000+01:00

NEW PHD PROGRAMME IN 'SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE'

This announcement was recently circulated to YPDR. Please note that the deadline for the first round of applications is September 17th, 2007!

The University Ca' Foscari of Venice has just started a new Ph.D. programme on:

SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE

This programme is jointly realised by the Center of Excellence for Sustainable Development (CESD) < http://venus.unive.it/cesd/> and the Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) <https://www.cmcc.it/>.

Objective
The Ph. D. programme in Science and Management of Climate Change aims to provide doctoral students with an extensive and in-depth expertise in the scientific and economic aspects of climate change, and with a proven record of original research on modelling climate change, its impacts, and related mitigation and adaptation policies.

Call for Applications
Applicants should read and carefully follow the detailed application instructions found at http://www.unive.it/nqcontent.cfm?a_id=35790. All applications must be received by 12.00 a.m. of September 17th, 2007. The selection process will close at the end of September. Courses will be in English and will start at the end of October.

For further information on the Ph.D. programme, please contact the University Research Doctorate Office.
E-mail: lauream@unive.it, Phone: +39.041.2347520.

2007-08-28T05:04:00.001+01:00

DISASTER RISK REDUCTION EDUCATION NETWORK (ENDRR-L)

Marla Petal, of RiskRed, is currently moderating a listserve on disaster risk reduction education (ENDRR-L). The list is informative and active, and the following message from Marla contains information on how you can get on their mailing list:

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

At some point during the past two years you have expressed an interest in being kept "in the loop" regarding disaster risk reduction education to children and to the general public. Some of you are representatives of National Platforms, education organizations, regional networks, international agencies, and others with a formal responsibility in this area. Others are individual practitioners, activists, advocates, teachers, students interested in this field.

The list is open to anyone who wishes to sign on. I am volunteering to moderate for the coming few months - which means that postings will pass by me and I will post all legitimate postings that fall within this purpose. Among other things this list will serve as a way for the UNISDR Global Platform's Knowledge and Education Platform to communicate with the widest possible group of individuals who want to be kept informed.

The Disaster Risk Reduction Education Network listserv has been set up to keep all of us informed of key research, meetings, publications, discussions, initiatives and
achievements in this important emerging field. Our goal is to increase the quality and effectiveness of disaster risk reduction education leading to fewer disaster losses of all kinds.

In order to
a) see the archives
b)post messages to this list
c) select message options
d) unsubscribe

You will need to go to
http://groups.preventionweb.net/scripts/wa-PREVENTIONWEB.exe?INDEX
and select the ENDRR Group and sign in and create your password.

Once you have succeeded, please feel free to pass this message on to any others you
think would like to join in. In the near future we expect a simple link from ISDR's web- page so that we can be easily found.

Sincerely,

Marla Petal
mpetal@riskred.org

2007-08-28T04:28:00.000+01:00

FLOODFIGHTERS CONFERENCE 2007

The following announcement was circulated to YPDR by email. Contact information for those responsible for this conference is at the bottom of this posting.

Flood Fighters 2007

Update : August 22nd, Confirmed Speakers

Michael D Brown - Head of FEMA during 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina confirmed as Chairman on the 19th
CFO Paul Hayden - CFO of Hereford and Worcester, Chair of CFOAâ€™s Operations Committee Fire and Rescue Service Inland Water Strategy Group, who will examine the future of climate change and the CFOA research project which he spearheaded
Gary Locker - ACPO Police Liaison, Cabinet Office
Malcolm Weatherall - Met Office
Mark Whyman ACC - South Yorkshire Police
Mark Smitherman CFO - South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service
Chief Fire Officer Phil Toase - West Yorkshire FRS on the FRNCC,
Flight Lt Gerry Taylor ARCC, RAF Kinloss
Rosanna Briggs - Essex County Council
Hugh Fogarty - RNLI Operations

Announced in February 2007, this year's Flood Fighters conference, which is being organised with the support of the UK Chief Fire Officers' Association (CFOA), has been made all the more pertinent by Britain's devastating floods.

Alongside a multitude of other agencies, Britainâ€™s Fire and Rescue Services (FRS) worked on thousands of incidents and dramatic water rescues in June and July.

Hundreds of thousands of householders and businesses have been badly affected by the floods; it is estimated that damage, clean-up costs and other losses will run to billions of pounds.

Flood Fighters 2007 will focus on building a targeted and effective risk-based response from blue light emergency, local authority and public utility services and will draw upon a wide range of sources and disciplines, both national and international.

This multi-disciplinary event is expected to attract upwards of 150 delegates from all the disciplines that have been called upon to deal with the flooding disasters in the UK. The high calibre conference programme and target audience can be found at www.flood-fighters.com

Flood Fighters is organised by Crisis Response Journal and Lane, Jefferies & Associates Ltd with the full support of CFOA.

More information from: www.flood-fighters.com
Contact : flood@crisis-response.com

Who should attend

:: All Category 1 & 2 responders
:: Military
:: Airport fire services
:: Waterway managers
:: Local authorities
:: Health boards
:: Private sector
:: Volunteer associations
:: Police, Fire, Ambulance and Medical services
:: Public utilities
:: Coastguard
:: Local Resilience Forum
:: Power Generators
:: DEFRA
:: RLSS

www.flood-fighters.com
flood@crisis-response.com
+44 (0) 1306 876 856

2007-08-28T04:25:00.001+01:00

IDRL NEWSLETTER

The IFRC/RC creates and circulates their IDRL (International Disaster Response Laws, Rules and Principles) Newsletter through email and online. The publication covers IDRL developments, IDRL media lines, and forums. It's definitely worth seeking out if you're interested in following policy and legal processes in disaster response. For more information about this IFRC/RC programme, you can contact:
katrien.beeckman@ifrc.org

2007-06-12T05:32:00.000+01:00

First Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Reduction

The first session of the Global Platform for Disaster Reduction has had its first meeting from June 5-7 in Geneva.

Videos, speeches and presentations from the Platform are available on their website and are definitely worth a perusal. Of particular note is the session document on reporting on disaster risks and progress in risk reduction.

2007-06-12T05:30:00.000+01:00

FACEBOOK Community Members

Facebook is a free online network which allows members to share information between contacts, post messages to one another and, in the case of YPDR, introduce individuals with similar interests and goals.

Facebook now has a YPDR Group, which any facebook member is free to join. Members can share information, post messages, and start dialogues on disaster management/risk reduction related issues.

2007-06-12T05:16:00.000+01:00

Launch: Building Disaster Resilient Communities -- Good Practices and Lessons Learned

The UN/ISDR has launched a new publication, "Building Disaster Resilient Communities -- Good Practices and Lessons Learned". The publication is an outcome of ISDR's new 'global network of NGOs'
Requests for e-copies of the publication, and suggestions for new case studies, can be sent to: Michele Cocchiglia (cocchiglia@un.org).

2007-05-21T14:20:00.000+01:00

YPDR wants to stress the announcement for Research and Action Grants for Disaster Risk Reduction
Announcement: Launch of Third Round of Grants
This is an excellent initiative, and one that our members from developing regions will want to take advantage of.
For more information, scroll down this page to a posting on Research and Action Grants for DRR, or visit: www.proventionconsortium.org

2007-05-21T14:18:00.000+01:00

Sent to YPDR by a member:

Global Network of NGOs for Disaster Risk Reduction

Dear Colleagues,

As you are probably aware, the emerging "Global Network of NGOs for Disaster Risk Reduction" has been facilitating the development of an 'NGO position paper' for the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP/DRR) (www.preventionweb.net/globalplatform).

The reasons for developing a common 'NGO position' at the GP/DRR are numerous. In particular, agreed recommendations will facilitate lobbying and advocacy efforts during the Global Platform, especially with regard to the identification of priorities for the ISDR system for 2008-2009.

The attached document is the result of several consultations with northern and southern civil society organisations, and includes the comments and feedback that have been received on the previous drafts. The document is currently being translated into other official UN languages by the ISDR secretariat and cannot be modified any further at this stage.

The aim is now to gather as much formal endorsement of this document as possible, in order to make a strong statement. Non-Governmental and Civil Society Organisations are encouraged to sign-up by sending their logo and the name of their organisations to cocchiglia@un.org no later than Friday 25 May 2007.

Please feel free to circulate this message as widely as possible..

The more signatures, the greater the impact!

Michele

--
Michele Cocchiglia (Mr.)

NGO Liaison Officer
International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UN/ISDR)
Chemin de Balexert 7-9, CH-1219 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel: +41 (0)22 917 8840
Mob: +41 (0)76 5183 498
Fax: +41 (0)22 917 8983
www.unisdr.org/ngos

2007-05-21T14:16:00.002+01:00

Sent from YPDR members, this is an excellent initiative:

UN/ISDR Prevention Web Announces the "Golden Library":

The Global Online Library for Disaster Risk Reduction Education

MAY 15th, 2007

We are proud to announce the beginning of The "Golden" Global Online

Library for Disaster Risk Reduction Education. This new initiative of
the Global Platform ISDR Thematic Platform on Knowledge andEducation,
and UN/ISDR Prevention Web is designed to allow for global sharing and
assessment of educational materials for disaster risk reduction, in
furtherance of Priority 3 of the Hyogo Framework for Action. The
project addresses the need expressed by national actors to have access
to available material related to education and disaster risk reduction
that could be used as a reference to facilitate the inclusion of
disaster risk reduction in school curricula and public education, as
prioritized by the Education Campaign launched by ISDR in 2006.

The project is in its initial collection and design phase. The
collection began with a call for materials for public, children,
vocational and instructor education in disaster risk reduction to be
exhibited at the International Disaster Reduction Conference in Davos
in August, 2006. The response was enthusiastic. Hundreds of items;
brochures, handbooks, text books, posters, toys, games, models, DVDs,
videos, CDs in many languages were collected from 47 countries. These
materials are housed at UNESCO headquarters in Paris and are now being
catalogued with extensive "metadata" describing the materials, scanned
cover and table of contents, and bibliographies. This will be
supplemented by additional materials already collected by the ISDR
thematic Platform on Knowledge and Education.

Sadly, the existence of these materials in an exhibition or a library,
does not mean that they have been put into the hands of the people
that need them, nor does it mean that they will be understood, or
effectively impact knowledge and action.

The Knowledge and Education Platform is charged with a key element of
the Hyogo Framework for Action; namely getting from dispersed
scientific / technical and indigenous knowledge, to local action at
the household, family, community, village, tribe, district, city,
regional and national levels. Everything depends on the quality of
educational materials used to communicate our messages about exactly
what measures everyone must engage in for disaster risk reduction.

The "Golden Library" is now being designed for full interactive online
access, so that users may submit new materials, and review and comment
upon any item in the collection. As far as possible, full digital
documents will be shared online. This is the first step to supporting
the many countries, projects, and communities that have nothing of
this kind. It will encourage us to build upon good practices, test our
materials, and continuously improve upon and share them.

The "Golden Library" can only be as good, and as comprehensive as YOU
make it by sharing the materials that you have and can find. Please
take the initiative to make this link!

PLEASE send your digital copy submissions (esp. PDF files) to:
riskreductioneducation@gmail.com

PLEASE your hard copy (including CD and DVD) submissions to:
Marie-Lou Darricau, Library Coordinator

United Nations, International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UN/ISDR)

International Environment House 2, 7-9 chemin de Balexert,
1219-Chatelaine / Geneva, Switzerland

For questions, suggestions, comments, and to contribute to the
discussion of strategies guiding educational materials development and
use, meta-data variables for cataloguing, evaluation processes and
criteria, and voluntary assistance in cataloguing and reviewing
documents please contact:

Marla Petal, Risk RED mpetal@riskred.org

Special Note: Due to an unfortunate small-scale disaster, the Spanish
language materials collected in Madrid in August 2006 are not
available and must be reassembled. The collection from Africa and the
Middle East is barely begun. Your support is much appreciated.

2007-05-21T14:16:00.001+01:00

OAEM launches opportunity to match students with prospective employers

The Ontario Association of Emergency Managers (OAEM) has launched another
online service for our members – an opportunity to match students
interested in gaining practical experience in the field of emergency
management with prospective employers.

Students who wish to gain experience in the field of emergency management
can offer their services for potential employers to hire them – on a
part-time, full-time summer, or field placement basis – by simply
registering and posting their information on OAEM's website under the
password protected Members section in a special Student Employment
Availability Registration form developed for this purpose. Information
tracked on this form includes name, location, educational institution and
program enrolled in, status, special interests, experience and special
skills, and availability.

The data will then become part of a list of available students, posted on
the same OAEM member-only site, from which interested employers can choose.
Employers interested in hiring a student with emergency management training
will be able to review the Student Employment Availability List online and
request the contact information for particular students from OAEM.

OAEM's Education Chair is responsible for maintaining the information on
available students and providing the data to interested employers. Personal
data will only be provided at the request of a prospective employer through
an email sent to the OAEM Education Chair.

Upon hiring a student on the list, employers are asked to notify the
Education Chair so the person can be removed from the list. Students who no
longer wish to be on the list simply need to request to have their name
removed from the list by email and go back into their member's profile and
delete their record online.

For more information on this initiative, check out our website at
www.oaem.ca/members and/or contact OAEM's Education Chair Vladimir Machlis
at education@oaem.ca.

2007-05-21T13:43:00.000+01:00

Research and Action Grants for Disaster Risk Reduction
Announcement: Launch of Third Round of Grants

The ProVention Consortium is pleased to announce the launch of the 2007-2008 Research & Action Grants for Disaster Risk Reduction. Students and young professionals from developing countries are invited to propose creative projects and innovative ideas for support. Please assist us by passing this message on to young disaster risk reduction champions (staff in non-governmental, government and private sector, graduate students, recent graduates) in developing countries!

The Research and Action Grants for Disaster Risk Reduction programme is designed to engage enthusiastic young students and professionals in developing countries in creating innovative links between research and action in disaster risk reduction. Applicants are invited to seek ways to cut across professional disciplines and to exchange knowledge and engage stakeholders from scientific and academic, civilian, public and private sectors. Information about previous rounds of grants is available at www.proventionconsortium.org/research_and_action_grants.

If you think that you have a project that will bridge the gap between knowledge and action in disaster risk reduction, and make your country, region, city or district safer - please apply. You may solve an urgent problem or document valuable lessons to be learned in the field; apply and test findings in a new physical, socio-political or cultural context; delve into subjects ignored by researchers in other places; or learn how to scale-up action, change policy, or link disaster risk reduction to other themes like urbanisation or climate adaptation.

A Request for Proposals will be issued on June 1, 2007. Proposals are encouraged in, but not limited to, the following thematic focus areas:
- Identifying enabling factors and incentives for disaster risk reduction
- Developing mechanisms to strengthen community resistance and resilience
- Applying local risk analysis and risk management (especially for schools and hospitals)
- Improving education materials and curricula
- Promoting risk reduction in response and recovery activities
- Engaging the private sector in disaster risk reduction (especially micro-enterprises)
- Linking climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts.

Eligibility & Requirements: Applicants and up to 2 additional team members must be under 35 years of age at the time of application, and must be citizens of a developing country (low to middle income: www.worldbank.org/data/countryclass/classgroups.htm). Each project should also have a host organisation and mentor. The team leader, host organisation and mentor should be based in the country where the project will be conducted. Preference will be given to projects involving 2 or 3 team members from different disciplines, engaging different sectors (academic, public, NGO or community, private), and coached by mentors from more than one field or sector.

Timeline:
- Request for Proposals will be available on: June 1, 2007
- Deadlines for proposal submission: July 15th, 2007 (earlier submissions are encouraged)
- Research and Action Grants Award Announcement: September 28th, 2007
- Project Implementation Phase: October 15th, 2007 - July 15th, 2008 (9 months)
- Project Dissemination Phase: July 15th - October 15th, 2008 (3 months)

Grant Amount: $5,000 maximum per project.

Partners: The Research and Action Grants for Disaster Risk Reduction was launched by the ProVention Consortium in 2003, under the name "Applied Research Grants Programme". It is administered in association with the University of Wisconsin Disaster Management Center with regional partners: Asian Disaster Preparedness Center; University of Cape Town Disaster Mitigation for Sustainable Livelihoods Programme; Secretariate General, The Latin American Social Science Faculty ; and Bogaziçi University Center for Disaster Management.

To receive an email with the Request for Proposal, following June 1, 2007, please write to:
provention@ifrc.org or download the request for proposal online at: www.proventionconsortium.org/research_and_action_grants.

----------------------------
Sent to YPDR by:

ProVention Consortium Secretariat
IFRC
P.O.Box 372
1211 Geneva 19
Switzerland
provention@ifrc.org
www.proventionconsortium.org

2007-04-22T11:54:00.000+01:00

Information on inTERRAgate

Lucy Stanbrough, of the Benfield UCL Hazard Research Centre, has contacted us about the inTERRAgate project. The aim of this new project is to provide "A framework for uploading natural hazard and risk data at a national level, together with in-country contact details for disaster first-responders".

Lucy writes: "InTERRAgate was launched in March 2007, with introductory information on natural hazard threats in ten of the world’s most vulnerable nations (Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Chile, El Salvador, Indonesia, Iran, Jamaica, Mexico and the Philippines). Like the online encyclopaedia, Wikipedia, inTERRAgate is designed to be ‘owned’ by data suppliers and users, who are able to upload information and influence content. Its ultimate success will, therefore, depend upon registered data suppliers from around the world uploading textual and graphical information to supplement initial data and to expand the country portfolio.

Basic in-country contact information, targeted at disaster first responders and other appropriate national and international NGOs, is available for some of the aforementioned ten countries, and will be supplemented by inTERRAgate editorial staff in the next few months. Access to some content is unrestricted, however users can gain access to further content and gain permission to submit or edit hazard information by signing up online for a free account.

inTERRAgate is "looking for further project sponsors and data sources to provide users with the most extensive information network available in order to make informed decisions". As such, they are willing to include services or links that you feel might be useful to the project.

For more information, sign up for an account at their website. If you want to submit information to the project, you can contact Tina Hyde at t.hyde@ucl.ac.uk or Lucy at l.stanbrough@ucl.ac.uk

They are looking for "anything and everything natural hazard related", which means that the information they gather will be quite useful to YPDR members. As Lucy notes, "if you have a favourite selection of links you use to find information then share them with the community and help others".

2007-04-22T11:45:00.000+01:00

A colleague suggested to me that YPDR members might be interested in the work of the SPIDER Network. The network, a collaborative effort between various Universities and research institituions), "have been working together to re-evaluate the role of science in disaster risk management".
They are putting together a series of meetings this summer. For more information, their website is available at www.spidernetwork.org

2007-03-13T03:15:00.000Z

MARCH UPDATE

We have recently sent out an email with our 'March Update'. Please let me know if you haven't received your copy, or if you would like to be added to our mailing list!

I am pleased to announce that the Young Professionals for Disaster Reduction (YPDR) Network has been invited to work closely with the International Disaster Reduction Conference (IDRC). The IDRC has kindly offered us support and guidance on creating our network – including an online platform – to further our mandate on a global level. It is hoped this partnership will allow both the YPDR and IDRC to further develop the effectiveness of their work. For more
information on the IDRC, please go to: www.idrc.info

Over the next three months we will be creating a clear structure for our website – we welcome you to submit ideas to us of what content you would like to see on the site, any organizations, contacts, internships, or programs that you feel would be good to be linked to YPDR, and we encourage you to circulate this email to your networks, students, colleagues, departments, organizations and other interested individuals.

We hope to send out a draft of what the site will hold for YPDR by June 2007. Once we have heard back from you on your perspectives on the site, we hope to have this online tool launched and running by August 2007. This site will hold information on current publications, job, internship and academic opportunities, relevant upcoming conferences and meetings, and links to other online resources. After this date, we will be expanding the site by adding an online network to allow all of our members to more effectively share information, chat about experiences, research and programs, engage in debates and dialogues on relevant issues, and meet other members.

Thanks for your support!

2007-03-13T03:04:00.000Z

The deadline for submissions to the UNISDR Informs publications is now March 30th 2007. These publications are interesting and informative compilations of ideas, experiences, and sometimes offer information on events, etc.

You can see past issues online, and get more information on the types of submissions that are wanted (this issue will have a strong section on Education) at: www.unisdr.org/asiapacific

2007-03-05T08:16:00.000Z

The UNISDR is looking for contributions to their compilation of Good Practices and Lessons Learned on Community-based Disaster Risk Reduction. The deadline for submissions is quite close -- it closes on Friday, 9 March 2007.

If you have community-level disaster risk reduction insights, contact Michele Cocchiglia, the NGO Liason Officer for the UN/ISDR at: cocchiglia@un.org or through their website at: www.unisdr.org

2007-02-09T14:08:00.000Z

The 17th World Conference on Disaster Management is going to be held on July 8-11, 2007, in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

For more information on this conference, please find further information at:

http://www.wcdm.org/

2007-02-09T14:07:00.000Z

BSHF (Building and Social Housing Foundation, UK) is inviting applications for travel bursary to visit Aga Khan Planning and BuildingService Pakistan World Habitat Award 2006 winning project Building andConstruction Improvement Program BACIP) in May 2007, in Northern Areasof Pakistan.

While BSH may send you a separate mail to inform of this opportunity,you may also get further details of the award/visit and apply for theBursary on line at www.bshf.org in the meantime, if interested.

Note that the deadline for this application is February 16th!

2006-10-19T14:45:00.000+01:00

Welcome!

Thank you for your interest in the network of Young Professionals for Disaster Risk Reduction (YPDR). The idea for this network has come out of discussions at the 2006 International Disaster Reduction Conference in Davos, Switzerland. Many of you have already spoken with me about this network – others may not have heard of it yet. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or interest you have in moving YPDR forward.

The goal of YPDR is to establish an international network between young professionals and relevant organizations whose mission is to strengthen disaster management initiatives.

After sending out an initial email on YPDR, we have generated interest in this group from over 30 countries, and want to ensure that we can effectively use this network to strengthen all of our work. The feedback we have received to date shows that this network could be an excellent resource for bridging the gap between organizations (academic, humanitarian and otherwise) and young professionals, so we are keen to start dialogues between these two groups.

Please watch this space for updates on YPDR, and use the links provided to explore networks and opportunities already available.

This website will be the temporary home for YPDR -- we will use it to post links to relevant organizations, any job postings which come our way, and keep you up-to-date on how YPDR is progressing!

We are hoping to soon have a site available where we are able to host online discussions where we can all share information on our research, work, new projects, current international events, conferences and meetings, lessons learned and publications.

To contact us for more information about our network, or to join our mailing list, please send an email to: ypdrdavos@gmail.com

Please feel free to pass on this address to anyone who is interested in this network, and if you feel that you are part of an organization or listserve that should be mentioned on our site, email us to have a link added.

Thank you for your interest and your support!

Erin Michelle Smith
PhD Candidate, King's College London

2006-10-19T14:41:00.000+01:00

A Few Interesting links:

The University of Colorado has established a ‘Disaster Grads’ listserv that some of you might want to use. The link to this service is available here:
http://www.colorado.edu/hazards/resources/disaster-grads.html

ProVention Consortium offers small grants for researchers from developing countries. Details of these grants is available here:
http://www.proventionconsortium.org/?pageid=32&projectid=5

The Emergency & Disaster Management Network, which has a forum for the sharing of knowledge, ideas and information across these disciplines, is available at:
http://www.emergencynetwork.co.uk/