The Suriname National Disaster Preparedness Baseline Assessment (NDPBA) analyzes the nation’s disaster management capabilities, identifying specific hazards and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Comprising Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (RVA) and Disaster Management Analysis (DMA), it offers actionable recommendations aligned with international frameworks. The assessment highlights Suriname’s exposure to multiple hazards and emphasizes the need for improved disaster management legislation and financing strategies to bolster resilience.
The Suriname National Disaster Preparedness Baseline Assessment (NDPBA) is a collaborative effort involving the Pacific Disaster Center (PDC) and the Nationaal Coördinatiecentrum voor Rampenbeheersing (NCCR). This assessment identifies Suriname’s specific hazard profiles and factors affecting disaster management, resulting in strategic recommendations aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
The NDPBA comprises two key components: the Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (RVA) and the Disaster Management Analysis (DMA). The RVA evaluates multi-hazard exposure, socio-economic vulnerabilities, and coping capacities. Meanwhile, the DMA qualitatively assesses institutional arrangements, governance mechanisms, capabilities, capacity development, and information management. The DMA findings provide context for the RVA results, creating a comprehensive understanding of Suriname’s disaster management landscape.
The RVA findings reveal that Suriname is exposed to multiple hazards, including extreme heat, flooding, and diseases, indicating a significant risk to its citizens and infrastructure. Addressing identified vulnerabilities, such as education, population pressures, and public health capacity, can enhance national resilience. Strategies to improve access to energy and technology further boost Suriname’s disaster response capabilities.
Suriname has advanced in disaster management through strategic partnerships and adherence to international standards. The Multi-Annual Development Plan 2022-2026 prioritizes mitigating impacts on vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the Environmental Framework Act 2020 enhances climate change adaptation and aims to establish disaster-resilient infrastructure. However, the lack of an approved Disaster Management Law limits NCCR’s effectiveness, hindering disaster preparedness.
As climate change increases risks, Suriname must develop a national climate and disaster risk financing strategy. Implementing the report’s recommendations will enhance national preparedness and disaster management capabilities, ensuring a more resilient future.
The NDPBA was funded by the US Government via the US Southern Command, with coordination from the U.S. Embassy in Suriname. PDC collaborated with several governmental and non-governmental entities for data collection. For further details, access the analysis through DisasterAWARE Pro®: https://disasteraware.pdc.org/ .
The Suriname National Disaster Preparedness Baseline Assessment is a vital tool for enhancing the country’s disaster management capabilities. By identifying hazards and vulnerabilities, it supports the development of strategic recommendations aligned with international frameworks. Continued progress in disaster preparedness, driven by improved legislation and financing strategies, will enhance Suriname’s resilience to climate-related risks.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
