An Assessment on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Occupied Palestinian Territory

In Palestine (the occupied Palestinian territories - oPt) there are a number of challenges in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), notably natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, desertification and droughts. Seismological studies show that there is a high probability of damaging earthquakes occurring in the region. At the same time, engineering studies show that seismic vulnerability of common buildings and infrastructures in the oPt is high. Major events triggered by climate changes and seismic activities may become trans-boundary. The objectives of this paper are to help establish a profile of DRR in the oPt and further help identify the needs of the oPt in the field of disaster risk reduction and management. In addition to the risk assessment, a review of existing legislation, capacities and shortages in various areas of needs, strengths and weaknesses in all elements of DRR plus institutional mechanisms towards disaster preparedness and prevention has been carried out. National and international initiatives toward DRR and case studies of (best) practices in the oPt were also reviewed. Historic data on recorded disaster related incidents pertaining to the number of people killed, the number of people affected and the economic loss incurred provides the main criteria for the risk assessment. The recommendations include regional cooperation, improvement/formulation of legislation toward disaster preparedness and prevention, linking policies and operations, coordination of central and local governments, political resolution, awareness and training, integration of DRR and management into national development, and developing a risk management database.