15 August 2012: As part of the “Our Perspective” series, UN Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark stresses the importance of building resilience for disaster risk reduction (DRR), and identifies five priorities to build a more equitable and sustainable future, including increased investments in prevention and preparedness.

Clark describes the high cost and impact of disasters, noting that 302 disasters in 2011 killed nearly 30,000 people and affected an additional 206 million, making it the most costly year ever for response and recovery from disasters. She explains that global disaster risk is highest in poor countries with weaker governance, a fact that contributes to persistent inequalities in prevention and preparedness.

Clark identifies five priorities for action: ensuring that DRR is a national and local priority; identifying, assessing and monitoring disaster risks and enhancing early warning systems; using knowledge, innovation and education to facilitate a culture of resilience and safety; reducing underlying risk factors; and strengthening disaster preparedness at all levels. She concludes that increased investments in prevention and preparedness are critical for resilience to disaster and for building a more equitable, sustainable future. [Our Perspective]