1.

Introduction to the Board of Directors

2. Introduction to the Committee

History of the Committee

Structure and Functions of the Committee

Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030

3. Introduction to the Topic

4. Identification of the Problem

a. Case Study 1 - Tsunami in the Indian Ocean (2004)

b. Case Study 2 - Cyclone Idai and Its Impact on Southern Africa (2019)

5. Past Actions

6. Bloc Positions

a. (Pacific) Island States

b. Asia and Africa

c. Europe and North America

d. (Latin America)

7. QARMAs

8. Bibliography

1
1. Introduction to the Board of Directors

Greetings, esteemed delegates!

A warm welcome to AYIMUN 2024! I’m Joshua Spreng, and I’m honoured
to serve as one of the Chairs of UNDRR this year! I’m currently living in
Karlsruhe, Germany, but spent the last half year in South Korea for an
exchange semester at Seoul National University. Aiming to better
understand the interplay between technology, economics, and their
societal implications, I decided to study Industrial Engineering at Karlsruhe
Institute of Technology in 2020. My MUN journey began comparatively
recently, in my early university years, about 2-3 years ago. Since then, I had
the privilege of participating both as a delegate and organiser (and now
chair with you!) to amazing conferences around Europe.

Having a background in technology consulting, I'm looking forward to

supporting you in finding innovative, technology-driven, and clever
strategies to reduce and mitigate potential disaster risks posed by
advancing climate crisis.

I wish you the best of luck in your preparations and look forward to the
fruitful discussions that lie ahead. If you have any questions, feel free to
contact me at [email protected].

Best,
Joshua

2
Greetings, esteemed delegates!

My name is Jacob Greene, and I want to start by welcoming every delegate

to the 13th iteration of the Asia Youth International Model United Nations! I
live in a city called Mississauga, which is right next door to Canada’s largest
city, Toronto. I have participated in and worked on MUN conferences for 4
years now, and I currently serve as the Director of External Affairs for TMUN
(Toronto Model United Nations). MUN is my main extracurricular activity,
and I plan to participate in MUN throughout the rest of high school and my
university career.

It is without a doubt that I am very excited to travel to Kuala Lumpur, a city

which I had the chance to visit once but only for a very short time! (I was on
a driving tour that left Singapore and arrived in Kuala Lumpur; it lasted a
day.) Now, with a chance to finally return and meet more people, it goes
without saying that I am very excited to come back!

I want to put it out there that I am a very open person. If you have a
question, want to get to know me, or just want to talk about whatever
interests you, I am always willing to speak. You can email me at
[email protected] or yell my name if you see me!

Best, Jacob Greene

3
Greetings, esteemed delegates!

I am Richard Ai from Canada and I have been active in the MUN circuit for
years and attended various MUN conferences such as Yale MUN and other
MUN Conferences in Canada. I am very excited to meet all the delegates of
the Asia Youth International Model United Nations 13th edition in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia. If youe need any kind of assistance regarding the
substance of the conference, you can contact me through
[email protected]. See you in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia!

Best,
Richard Ai

4
2. Introduction to the Committee
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) serves as
the primary coordinating body within the UN system for disaster risk
reduction (DRR). Its core mission is to coordinate disaster risk reduction,
with the ultimate goal of preventing and limiting loss of life and economic
damage. Thus, the UNDRR envisions a future where disasters no longer
threaten the well-being of people and the future of the planet. This
becomes increasingly important since the number of natural disasters has
tripled in the last 30 years (UNDRR, n.d.). Further, the trend goes towards
having even more and more vigorous natural disasters making it an
mammoth task of utmost importance in order to ensure a more resilient
future and to protect the progress towards the SDGs. The most vulnerable
often suffer the most from disasters such as floods because they often live
in areas that are more prone to being affected by disasters (B.A. Ferrier &
J.T. Spickett, 2007).

The UNDRR challenges its stakeholders and partners to think and act
differently about disasters, shifting the focus from picking up the pieces
after a disaster to risk-proofing the beginning of any development
investment aiming to increase the resilience of communities to any
disasters they might face. Additionally, the UNDRR supports member
states in implementing, monitoring and reporting on the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. The Sendai Framework
for DDR serves as the roadmap for how the UNDRR intends to make
communities safer and more resilient (UNDRR, 2015).

Thus, the UNDRR oversees the implementation of the Sendai Framework

for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, supporting countries in its
implementation, monitoring and sharing what works to reduce existing
risks and prevent the creation of new ones.

History of the Committee

The UNDRR has been advocating for and promoting disaster risk reduction
for over 10 years. Subsequently, a summary of the main events in the
history of the UNDRR (UNDRR, n.d.):

● 1960s: The UN/GA adopted measures regarding severe disasters

● 1971: Creation of the United Nations Disaster Relief Office (UNDRO)
● 1987-1999: The International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction

5
○ "The GA recognizes the importance of reducing the impact of
natural disasters for all people, and in particular for developing
countries;. It decides to designate the 1990s as a decade in
which the international community, under the auspices of the
United Nations, will pay special attention to fostering
international co-operation in the field of natural disaster
reduction, ..."
● 1994-2008: First steps for early warning systems
● 1999: Establishment of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk
Reduction
○ It was this year that the office was concretely established. The
General Assembly had called in the previous years for a
formalised, international approach towards natural disasters.
● 2000: Establishment of International Strategy for Disaster Reduction
● 2006: Endorsing the establishment of the Global Platform on
Disaster Reduction
● 2015: Third United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk
Reduction in Sendai (Japan), and Establishment of the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction

Structure and Functions of the Committee

The UNDRR was first established in order to help bring about the
implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR),
as mandated by GA resolution 56/195. In 2015, it took on a new purpose
with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. This framework
was tasked to the UNDRR by the General Assembly after being signed by
all UN member states.

The key functions of the UNDRR include (UNDRR, n.d):

1. Coordinating risk reduction across the globe with the goal of a more
resilient future.
2. Collecting knowledge and strategies in regards to mitigation and
resilience
3. Protecting progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs)

The UNDRR’s headquarters are within the UN offices in Geneva, but it has
regional offices around the world (especially in vulnerable states) in order
to facilitate disaster risk reduction all over.

6
Funding for the UNDRR is limited. Currently, over 99 percent comes from
“voluntary contributions by a diverse donor base” (UNDRR, n.d.). These
donors can be governments, private firms, organisations, etc. The UNDRR
has published its need for more funding, either through the UN Secretariat
or a framework for funding.

The UNDRR’s current and future action plans in light of the Sendai
Framework are what you will be simulating as delegates in the upcoming
committee sessions.

Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030) is an
international document adopted by United Nations member states during
the World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai (Japan), and
endorsed by the UN General Assembly in June 2015. It serves as the
successor agreement to the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–2015),
which before had been the most comprehensive international agreement
on disaster risk reduction.

The Sendai Framework sets four specific priorities for action (UNDRR, 2015):

1. Understanding disaster risk

2. Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk
3. Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience
4. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response, and to
"Building Back Better" in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction

7
Figure 1: The seven global targets in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk
Reduction (UNDRR, 2015)

3. Introduction to the Topic

A crucial step in this debate is to recognize that there's no such thing as a
purely natural disaster. While certain natural hazards like earthquakes,
floods, droughts, and cyclones are inevitable, their devastating impact can
be mitigated. Through careful and coordinated planning, we can diminish
their destructive potential. This means switching the focus from managing
disasters to managing risk that involve strategies which aim to minimise
people's exposure and susceptibility to harm (UNDRR, n.d.).

The necessity of disaster mitigation strategies and risk reduction has

increased tremendously in the 21st century, often linked to reasons such as
the climate crisis, urbanisation and rising levels of poverty and inequality. A
natural disaster’s severity is determined by the consequences that it has on
its surrounding environment and society. In order to minimise the risks
and effects of such disasters, mitigation strategies and risk reduction
methods are essential.

The common goal of measures dealing with the consequences of disasters

has now been named ‘Disaster Risk Management’ (DRM). The UNDRR has
adopted this approach through the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk

8
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of these shifts reach everyone and that we're prepared for the evolving
challenges. Countries in the M global South are the mostM -
vulnerable to the
climate crisis and the increasing likelihood of natural disasters (B.A. Ferrier
-

& J.T. Spickett, 2007). Hence, it's vital for developed nations and large
financial institutions to allocate a significant portion of their climate funds
-
to support adaptation and resilience efforts in developing countries. As the
United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the committee has a
responsibility to enhance methods of cooperation for mitigation and to set
the framework for financing risk resilience, taking into account the
priorities of these vulnerable countries.

The alarming impact and risks that climate change poses on developing
countries has led to an increasingly rising need for innovative and
collective solutions to disaster risk. Specifically, this requires discussion on
general solutions applicable to various disaster risks in developing nations
as well as the discussion on the role of developed states regarding climate
and disaster finance.

Following, to ensure a common understanding of the most frequent

terminologies in this debate, a short definition of them (UNDRR, n.d.):
-
● Disaster: A serious-disruption of the functioning of a community or a
society at any scale due to hazardous events - interacting with leads
!-

conditions of -exposure, vulnerability and capacity, leading to one orT It

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more of the following: human, material, economic and
to thes
the
to
environmental losses and impacts. If we take the interpretation of a due
disaster from the EM-DAT, one of the foremost international ruptan"
databases of- collecting data about natural hazards and disasters, an
event must meet at least one of the following criteria:
○ Ten or more people reported killed
○ 100 or more people reported affected
○ Declaration of a state of emergency
○ Call for international assistance

M
● Hazard: It refers to a-
severe or extreme event such as a flood, storm,
-
cold spell
-

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- - M
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livelihoods damaged or destroyed. Increases in the global
population, particularly in areas of high hazard risk raises the level of
the risk of disasters as more people are exposed to the potential
harms of hazards.

● Disaster risk: The potential loss of life, injury, or destroyed or

damaged assets which could occur to a system, society or a
community in a specific period of time, determined probabilistically
as a function of hazard, exposure, vulnerability and capacity.

● Disaster risk reduction: It aims at preventing new and reducing

existing disaster risk and managing residual risk, all of which
contribute to strengthening resilience and therefore to the
achievement of sustainable development.

● Resilience: The ability of a system, community or society to resist,

absorb, withstand and recover from the effects of a hazard, including
through the preservation and restoration of its essential basic
structures and functions through risk management. This is different
from disaster prevention and should be discussed differently as well.

● Prevention: Activities and measures to avoid existing and new

disaster risks.

● Mitigation: Means and methods in order to minimise the effects of

the adverse impacts of a hazardous event in terms of the human,
social and economic losses to a nation.

● Climate Finance: Financing, from a local or international level, given

to support mitigation and adaptation strategies in the face of climate
change and its consequences.

10
4. Identification of the Problem
Over the last twenty years, 7,348 disaster events (CRED and UNDRR, 2020)
were recorded worldwide by EM-DAT, one of the foremost international
databases of such events. In total, as seen in Figure 2, disasters claimed
approximately 1.23 million lives, an average of 60,000 per annum, and
affected a total of over 4 billion people (many on more than one occasion).
Additionally, disasters led to approximately US$ 2.97 trillion in economic
losses worldwide.

Figure 2: Disaster Impacts: 1980-1999 vs. 2000-2019 (CRED and UNDRR, 2020)

When discussing disaster risk reduction strategies, it becomes imperative

to pinpoint the core challenges at hand. While natural hazards like
earthquakes, floods, droughts, and cyclones have always existed, the
amplification of their impact in recent years cannot be ignored (CRED and
UNDRR, 2020). This escalation is not solely a consequence of nature's
unpredictability but is exacerbated by various socio-economic and
environmental factors.

One of the most glaring issues is the disproportionate vulnerability of

certain populations, particularly in developing nations . These communities
often face heightened risks due to factors such as inadequate
infrastructure, limited resources, and socio-economic disparities (B.A.
Ferrier & J.T. Spickett, 2007). As highlighted by recent reports, the severity
of a disaster's impact is closely intertwined with the vulnerability and
resilience of the affected community. In essence, the same hazard can

11
have drastically different outcomes based on a community's preparedness,
-

resources, and adaptive capacity.

-

Fig 3: Classifying natural hazards by disaster type according to EM-DAT (CRED and
UNDRR, 2020)

Furthermore, the accelerating pace of urbanisation, coupled with the

looming threats of climate change, has intensified the- urgency for robust

-
disaster risk reduction strategies. Rapid urban growth- without adequate
-

-
planning exacerbates vulnerabilities, making cities and communities more
[ - - -

!
susceptible to the devastating consequences of natural hazards.

!
Additionally, the interconnected nature of our globalised world implies
that a disaster in one region can have ripple effects, underscoring the need
- -

for a collaborative and inclusive approach to disaster risk reduction.

-
rentan Heman
Thus, the -
problem of disaster risk reduction and mitigation is a question of
development. This underscores the significance of-
- addressing this issue
-
within the context of developing nations. Recent IPCC reports clearly
-
highlight that the climate crisis is intensifying the challenges these nations
already face.

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12
Fig 4: The Global Climate Risk Index: Shows the vulnerability of countries against
disasters. Disproportionately, developing countries are affected more
(GermanWatch, 2021)

Moreover, while strides have been made in disaster risk management,

there remains a significant gap in ensuring equitable access to resources,
information, and support mechanisms. The resulting disasters have severe
consequences on different levels for affected countries and their
inhabitants:

Social

Disasters have a profound impact on the social fabric of communities and

nations. Foremost among the devastating consequences is the tragic loss
of human life. Every disaster underscores the irreplaceable value of human
life, leaving families shattered and communities in sorrow. In addition to
these profound losses, disasters also destroy key pillars of society, causing
severe disruption to food systems, medical supply, and capabilities of
human support. Medical facilities and supplies, essential for addressing
immediate and long-term health needs, often face significant challenges,
leading to increased vulnerability and exacerbated health crises. The
interruption in medical supply chains can result in a scarcity of life-saving
medications, equipment, and personnel, further straining healthcare
systems and limiting access to critical care services. Reliable food sources
are compromised, exacerbating hunger and food insecurity, particularly
among vulnerable populations. Further, the education landscape is also

13
suffering as schools and institutions struggle with closures and
infrastructure damage. Such disruptions deny countless people, especially
children and young adults, the right to education and hinder social
progress and development.

Economic

The economic impact of disasters is wide-ranging and casts a long shadow

over national and regional economies. One of the most obvious
consequences is the rise in poverty rates. Disasters disproportionately
affect marginalised and vulnerable communities, plunging many into the
abyss of poverty as their livelihoods collapse and their economic activities
falter. At the same time, disasters exacerbate income inequality and widen
the gap between the wealthy and the marginalised, on a global but also
local level. This growing divide underscores socio-economic inequalities,
which are exacerbated in times of crisis. Moreover, the strain on economies
is palpable and manifests itself in disrupted supply chains, reduced
productivity and escalating financial burdens. Such stress factors hinder
economic growth and leave countries struggling with the challenges of
recovery and reconstruction.

Environmental

The impact of disasters on the environment is both immediate and

permanent, changing landscapes and ecosystems in profound ways. One
of the most serious impacts is the loss of habitat, with many natural
habitats bearing the brunt of destruction. Flora and fauna are under
existential threat, leading to dwindling biodiversity and irreversible
ecological changes. Furthermore, disasters upset the sensitive ecological
balance and disrupt intricate ecosystems that have evolved over millennia.
Such disruptions have cascading effects on water sources, soil fertility and
overall ecological sustainability. The impacts extend far beyond the
immediate disaster area and influence regional and global environmental
dynamics, underscoring the intricate interactions within our shared
planetary ecosystem.

14
Subsequently, we give you two case studies that showcase past disasters
and the subsequent actions taken by the UNDRR on the topic. You can
utilise these case studies to gain a more hands-on understanding of
disasters and the corresponding solutions to address them.

Fig 5: The number of deaths per year with major events highlighted, in thousands
(CRED and UNDRR, 2020)

Case Study 1 - Tsunami in the Indian Ocean (2004)

With one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded came one of the
deadliest tsunamis in modern history. On the 26th of December, 2004 a 9.1
magnitude earthquake, triggered by a massive undersea earthquake off
the coast of Sumatra, ran down all the way to Madagascar. With waves
reaching staggering heights, the tsunami devastated coastal communities
across several countries, including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand,
among others. The sudden and powerful inundation caught many
residents and tourists off-guard, resulting in catastrophic loss of life,
displacement, and extensive damage to infrastructure, livelihoods, and
ecosystems (K. Satake, 2014).

This event led to increased international action in disaster risk reduction

and mitigation efforts and highlighted the disparity of consequences felt

15
by developing nations. Many steps were undertaken by the UNDRR,
governments, and many other international organisations, focusing on
natural hazards and disaster risk management after this destructive
tsunami in 2004. This tsunami raised risk awareness and showed which
steps are necessary in order to create more resilient societies. One crucial
one of them that is significantly pushed forward by the UNDRR, are early
warning systems. The devastating damage of the tsunami illuminated the
critical need for robust mechanisms capable of detecting and proactively
and promptly communicating imminent threats to at-risk communities.
Consequently, in the aftermath of the disaster, regional and international
stakeholders galvanised their efforts, culminating in the establishment of
the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS).

Additionally, the tsunami underscored the importance of community

preparedness and awareness. Stakeholders recognized the need to
educate and empower communities through targeted awareness
campaigns and regular drills. Such initiatives provided individuals with
essential knowledge and resources, enabling them to mitigate risks and
respond promptly during emergencies (K. Satake, 2014).

Lastly, the tsunami drew attention to vulnerabilities in coastal

infrastructure and urban areas, emphasising the importance of integrating
risk reduction principles into development planning. Efforts were directed
toward enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure and refining
urban planning strategies, striking a balance between developmental
goals and risk mitigation.

Case Study 2 - Cyclone Idai and Its Impact on Southern Africa (2019)

Cyclone Idai, which struck Southern Africa in March 2019, stands as one of
the most destructive tropical cyclones ever to hit the region. Originating
from the Indian Ocean, this powerful storm made landfall near Beira,
Mozambique, before moving further inland, wreaking havoc across
Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. The aftermath revealed a landscape
scarred by destruction, with communities grappling with unprecedented
challenges. The scale of the disaster posed significant challenges for relief
and recovery efforts. Limited accessibility, damaged infrastructure, and
logistical hurdles hindered the timely delivery of humanitarian aid to
affected regions. Moreover, the unprecedented scale of displacement, with

16
thousands rendered homeless, placed immense pressure on relief
agencies and host communities.

Cyclone Idai underscored not only the urgent need for equitable disaster
risk reduction strategies but also to catalyse investment in
resilience-building measures. Recognizing the long-term benefits of
proactive investment, the UNDRR advocated for increased funding and
resources to support proactive and comprehensive disaster risk reduction
initiatives, enhance infrastructure resilience, and foster sustainable
development practices in cyclone-prone regions. Further, the UNDRR
increasingly supported efforts to establish and strengthen disaster loss and
damage tracking systems, enabling governments, humanitarian agencies,
and stakeholders to promote accountability among governments, monitor
impacts, evaluate effectiveness of undertaken measures, and inform
evidence-based decision-making processes.

5. Past Actions
Historically, the evolution of disaster risk reduction strategies can be traced
back to foundational frameworks and initiatives that laid the foundation for
today's efforts. These cornerstones underscore the interconnectedness of
disaster risk reduction with broader development plans and emphasise
the need for integrated, multi-sectoral approaches that prioritise the most
vulnerable populations. As the global community grapples with the
increasing challenges of climate change, urbanisation and socio-economic
inequalities, the need to develop equitable disaster risk reduction
strategies has never been greater.

By exploring the historical context, foundational frameworks and evolving

discourse around equitable DRR, you can gain a comprehensive
understanding of the multiple challenges, opportunities and complexities
in this important area (UNDRR, n.e.).

Regional Platforms for Disaster Risk Reduction

Facilitated by UNDRR, Regional Platforms for Disaster Risk Reduction

bring together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss, strategize, and
collaborate on disaster risk reduction initiatives at the regional level
(UNDRR, n.d.). Initiated to address region-specific challenges and priorities,

17
these platforms emphasise - the importance of context-specific and
-inclusive approaches to risk reduction. Through regional consultations,
-

workshops, and dialogues, stakeholders exchange knowledge, best

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[ practices, and lessons learned, fostering regional cooperation and

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collaboration. Implemented across different regions, the platforms engage
-

with countries, regional organisations, civil society, academia, and the

-

private sector, promoting inclusive and equitable risk reduction strategies

-

tailored to regional contexts and priorities.

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Making Cities Resilient 2030 Campaign (MCR2030)

Launched by UNDRR, the Making Cities Resilient Campaign aims to

·-
bolster urban resilience by engaging local governments and city leaders in
-

disaster risk reduction efforts (UNDRR, n.d.). Recognizing the rapid

urbanisation trends and increasing vulnerabilities of cities, the campaign
encourages cities worldwide to adopt and implement resilience-building

= ↳
strategies. Through the campaign, cities commit to developing inclusive
risk reduction plans, strengthening infrastructure, -
-
enhancing early
warning systems, and promoting community engagement. Implemented
at the local level, the campaign involves collaboration with national
governments, local authorities, civil society organisations, and
communities, emphasising the importance of inclusive and equitable
urban planning and development.
=
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)

Initiated in 2015 at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk

Reduction in Sendai, Japan, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk
Reduction represents a global commitment to reducing disaster risk and
losses (UNDRR, 2015). Recognizing the increasing impacts of disasters on
communities worldwide, the framework emphasises an all-of-society
approach, aiming to substantially reduce risks in lives, livelihoods, and
health by 2030. Implemented through national and local strategies, it

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focuses on enhancing preparedness, strengthening early warning systems,
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and promoting resilient infrastructure and sustainable development.
Adopted by UN member states, the framework encourages countries to
integrate disaster risk reduction into policy and planning processes,
ensuring that strategies are inclusive and equitable, with particular

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18
attention to the needs of vulnerable groups.

Global Assessment Reports on Disaster Risk Reduction (GAR)

Produced by UNDRR, the Global Assessment Reports on Disaster Risk

Reduction provide comprehensive analyses of global disaster risk trends
and patterns (UNDRR, n.d.). Initiated to enhance understanding of disaster
risks and promote informed decision-making, the reports highlight the
disproportionate impacts of disasters on vulnerable communities and
underserved populations. Through extensive research and analysis, GARs
emphasise the importance of inclusive risk reduction strategies,
advocating for equitable policies, and interventions that prioritise the
needs of marginalised groups. The reports are disseminated globally,
targeting policymakers, practitioners, academia, and the general public,
aiming to foster dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration on
disaster risk reduction efforts

Early Warning Systems

Recognizing the essential role of early warning systems in mitigating

disaster risks and enhancing preparedness, UNDRR has been at the
forefront of advocating for and supporting the development and
implementation of early warning mechanisms globally (UNDRR, n.d.). By
detecting potential hazards such as hurricanes, tsunamis, floods, and
droughts in advance, these systems facilitate the dissemination of critical
alerts and advisories to at-risk communities, authorities, and relevant
stakeholders.
This timely dissemination of information empowers communities to
undertake preparatory actions, such as evacuation, securing essential
infrastructure, and mobilising resources, thereby minimising exposure to
risks and vulnerabilities.

The Santiago Network

The Santiago Network, established in December 2019 at COP25, in

collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
(UNDRR) and regional partners, serves as a vital platform for enhancing
disaster risk reduction (DRR) efforts, promoting cooperation, and fostering

19
resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNDRR, n.d.). This network
brings together countries, organisations, stakeholders, and experts
committed to advancing DRR objectives, sharing knowledge, exchanging
experiences, and collaborating on common challenges and priorities in the
region.

6. Bloc Positions
The objective of a Model United Nations committee is to formulate a
resolution addressing the topic's challenges. Recognizing the collaborative
nature of this endeavour, delegates organise into groups, referred to as
blocs, to collaborate effectively.

Subsequently, possible blocs are explained that could be formed in the

upcoming sessions. As a bloc, you either have similar interests and ideas or
are similar in your approach towards the issues. Think of how your bloc can
exert its influence on the committee as you write the resolution and move
the debate towards your country’s favour. In collective blocs, delegates
should remain vigilant in pushing for national, bilateral, regional, and
international disaster risk mitigation actions and responsibilities. The
UNDRR regional platforms build on lessons learnt, past experiences, and
good practices; hence, updating their action plans accordingly.

Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies do not offer prominent opposite blocs

as other topics or conflicts may do. No countries openly oppose disaster
risk reduction strategies per se. However, various factors can complicate or
slow down the formulation or implementation of such strategies. First,
some nations, particularly those grappling with immediate crises such as
conflicts or economic challenges, may prioritise pressing issues over
long-term risk reduction efforts. Second, the significant financial
investment required for comprehensive risk reduction initiatives can be a
deterrent for countries with strained economies. Additionally, political
considerations might slow down the adoption of these strategies,
especially if they appear to clash with other national interests or policies.
Lastly, cultural or social influences, rooted in traditional beliefs or practices,
can shape perceptions of risk and appropriate mitigation measures,
potentially complicating the implementation of universally accepted
strategies. Thus, while all countries recognize the importance of disaster
risk reduction to some extent, the level of commitment, resources
allocated, and effectiveness of strategies can vary significantly based on
national circumstances, priorities, and challenges. Consequently, bloc

20
formation is preferable to commence on the aforementioned factors as
well as based on a regional basis. Potential mergers would take place
towards the end of the committee if needed.

(Pacific) Island States

Island nations in the Pacific region, despite their small size, face significant
vulnerabilities to natural disasters and climate risks. They face severe
climate impacts, including sea level rise, changing temperatures and
rainfall patterns. These impacts are leading to changes in food and water
security, loss of identity, climate-induced migration, and threats to
sovereignty (E. Mcleod et. al, 2019). As a collective bloc of island states,
delegates should remain vigilant in pushing for solutions that combine
traditional practices and cutting-edge science, to build the resilience of
their communities and ecosystems. Often, their efforts contribute to local
development priorities and create co-benefits for multiple SDGs. Island
states already have plenty of innovative solutions that could be brought to
a bigger scale (E. Mcleod et. al, 2019). Such technologies as well as policy
ideas implemented could be important in a resolution for this issue.

Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean states, which are among the most vulnerable countries in
the world, have joined forces in disaster risk reduction and financing. The
Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (CDRRF), for example, is a
multi-donor trust fund set up by the Caribbean Development Bank, which
receives funds from the EU, CDB, Canada, etc. These funds are then
distributed to projects at community level. These funds are then
distributed to projects at the community level. The Caribbean islands
emphasise community resilience, financial support mechanisms and
regional cooperation to address common challenges. They advocate for
the incorporation of cultural perspectives and practices into disaster risk
management frameworks. This cultural emphasis implies that strategies
and interventions should not only be based on external, prescriptive action
points but also consider and integrate local cultural nuances, practices, and
beliefs (Simon Hollis, 2014).

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The Maldives
The Maldives, a nation particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and
climate-related disasters, emphasises the importance of effective disaster
management, risk reduction, and resilience-building efforts. On average,
the Maldives rises only 1.5 metres above sea level, making any change in its
environment potentially deadly for its inhabitants. The country provides an
important case for the risks of climate disasters and both the failures and
triumphs of disaster risk reduction efforts. As the country is composed of
nearly 1200 islands within 26 atolls, the management of the islands are
difficult, and risks are high. The most impending risk currently is that of
rising sea levels, however this is not the only one. The 2004 tsunami slowed
the development of the nation extremely, but since then the country was
spurred to focus on disaster management and risk reduction. Looking at
the efforts of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in the
Maldives, these nations advocate for integrated approaches that address
immediate risks while promoting long-term resilience and sustainability
(Maldives at COP26, 2021).

Philippines
In the World Risk Report of 2018, the Philippines ranked third globally for
the highest disaster risk. Coastal hazards such as storms, rising sea levels
and tsunamis as well as its location on the ‘Pacific Ring of Fire’, means it is
liable to many types of disasters. In the same year, 85.2% of the sources of
the country’s production were reported as “susceptible to disasters and
food supplies may be at risk. Socially, these disasters seem to only increase
the income gap as funding for disaster management is often diverted from
education, medicine, and nutrition. As a bloc, these nations emphasise the
importance of coastal hazard management, climate resilience, and
sustainable development. Addressing challenges related to food security,
socio-economic disparities, and infrastructure resilience, the Philippines
advocate for multi-sectoral approaches, international collaboration, and
innovative solutions to address complex and evolving disaster risks
(UNDRR, 2019).

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Asia and Africa
African and Asian nations have compelling reasons to collaborate closely
on disaster risk reduction strategies. Firstly, both continents, particularly
regions within South Asia and Africa, exhibit similar vulnerabilities to
disasters and escalating climate risks, largely due to their status as
developing nations within the 'global south'. Following, two reasons why
Asian and African countries could form blocs:

1. Vulnerability in these continents, in terms of disaster risk, remains

very similar. As developing nations of the ‘global south’ countries,
especially in South Asia and Africa are left with similar disasters
facing them and heightened climate risks.

2. There have been long-standing relationships between the countries

of both continents, whether it is economically, politically, socially or in
sharing methods of disaster risk reduction

Africa:
The 2021 Africa Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction serves as a
testament to the continent's proactive stance, emphasising the vision of
"Towards Disaster Risk-Informed Development for a Resilient Africa in a
Covid-19 Transformed World." (UNDRR, 2021). This initiative underscores
Africa's commitment not just to addressing immediate challenges but also
to envisioning a future where the repercussions of disasters, whether
natural or pandemic-induced, are minimised. Furthermore, the African
Union, in collaboration with regional bodies and member states, has been
at the forefront of fostering resilience-building initiatives. These efforts
span capacity-building workshops, knowledge-sharing platforms, and
regional collaborations to harness indigenous knowledge, local practices,
and innovative solutions tailored to Africa's diverse landscapes and
communities.

Asia:
The Asian Disaster Reduction Centre (ADRC) is a pivotal institution in the
region, actively monitoring and reporting on disasters while promoting a
culture of "multilateral network building for improving disaster risk
reduction (DRR) capacity." Such initiatives underscore Asia's proactive
approach to fostering resilience and collaboration across borders. Further,
The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction
(APMCDRR) contributes to promote coordination and cooperation across
the region and review the progress in the implementation of the Sendai
Framework at the regional level (Asia Disaster Reduction Center, n.d.).

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Europe and North America
Europe and North America, being among the most developed regions,
should prioritise establishing frameworks for financing developing
countries in disaster risk reduction strategies. Furthermore, some nations
also possess different technologies that could assist vulnerable nations in
implementing effective mitigation strategies.

Leveraging existing platforms like the European Forum for Disaster Risk
Reduction (EFDRR), that serves as Europe's regional platform structure,
these nations advocate for inclusive approaches that address global
challenges, promote best practices, and foster collaboration across borders.
Through the forum, the European states share about their DRR
responsibility and accountable DRR commitments. In keeping with the
Sendai Framework's multi-stakeholder spirit, the EFDRR offers
governments and stakeholders the opportunity to share their experiences
on DRR and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) best practices and
innovative approaches.

(Latin America)
Latin American countries face a multitude of natural hazards ranging from
earthquakes and volcanic eruptions to hurricanes and floods. The shared
vulnerabilities across this region underscore the imperative for collective
action in disaster risk reduction. Organisations like the Regional Platform
for Disaster Risk Reduction in the Americas play pivotal roles in fostering
dialogue, sharing best practices, and facilitating regional cooperation. By
leveraging regional partnerships and collaborative frameworks, nations
aim to strengthen early warning systems, enhance preparedness
measures, and promote sustainable development practices that prioritise
risk reduction.

(Middle East)
From water scarcity and desertification to ongoing conflicts and
geopolitical tensions, nations in this region navigate multifaceted risks that
require collaborative solutions. Despite these complexities, there's a
growing recognition of the need for regional cooperation, conflict-sensitive
approaches, and technological innovation. Countries in the Middle East
emphasise leveraging advanced technologies, early warning systems, and
data analytics to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
Furthermore, strengthening partnerships with international organisations,

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neighbouring countries, and regional platforms remains crucial in
mobilising resources, sharing expertise, and fostering a unified approach to
disaster risk reduction tailored to the region's unique challenges and
opportunities.

7. QARMAs

Long-term and preventive solutions

● What technologies, initiatives, and projects are proposed to bolster

community resilience in vulnerable areas?
● Which multinational approaches to risk reduction should be
prioritised, especially in terms of innovative solutions for disaster risk
reduction?

Collaborations, Responsibility, and Framework

● How will your resolution focus on urging countries to implement

national disaster risk mitigation approaches?
● How can your resolution show how the shared goal of disaster risk
reduction aligns national, regional, and international DRR efforts?
● How are you intending to address the issues of lack of ownership of
disaster risk mitigation approaches? And
● How do you aim to incorporate local and indigenous knowledge into
disaster risk reduction plans?

Short-term and immediate assistance

● What immediate measures and interventions should be prioritised

to aid populations affected by disasters, ensuring they access
essential resources promptly?

Financial mechanisms and support

● What funding mechanisms and sources are proposed to finance

equitable disaster risk reduction in vulnerable regions?

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