Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR) Efforts in Fiji Islands at the Community Level: Is it Really Inclusive?
Meenal Nand,* Ronesh Prasad, Febi Dwirahmadi, Jamie Ranse, & Masoud Mohammadnezhad
*Corresponding Author Meenal Nand is a PhD Candidate at the Griffith University School of Medicine & Dentistry.
The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or positions of the Pacific Islands Development Program or the East-West Center.
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MikaelEriksson via Getty Images.
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Abstract
This paper critically examines the effectiveness of Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR) efforts at the community level in the Fiji Islands, questioning whether these efforts truly encompass the needs of all community members, particularly the most vulnerable. By analyzing the current state of IDRR, identifying gaps, and providing recommendations for enhancing community resilience, this situational analysis underscores the urgent need for more comprehensive and inclusive strategies. The findings suggest that while progress has been made, significant improvements are necessary to ensure that IDRR efforts empower all individuals and communities in Fiji.
Keywords: Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR), community, Inclusive, vulnerable, Fiji Islands.
Background
Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (IDRR) aims to ensure that disaster preparedness and response strategies consider the needs of all individuals, including vulnerable groups (UNDRR, 2019; WHO, 2020). In Fiji Islands, traditional community structures and a strong sense of kinship play vital roles in disaster management. However, the integration of inclusive practices in IDRR efforts has been inconsistent. The need for IDRR has become increasingly evident, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak, which exposed significant gaps in protecting the most vulnerable populations. IDRR targets integrating all community members’ needs into disaster risk management frameworks to ensure equitable protection and support. Historical approaches to disaster risk management in Fiji Islands have often overlooked the specific needs of vulnerable groups, leading to increased risk and reduced resilience for these populations (IFRC, 2020; Pearce et al., 2020).
Current State of IDRR in Fiji Islands
According to the Fiji Meteorological Service, the frequency and intensity of climate-induced disasters in Fiji have increased in recent years. Cyclone Winston, one of the most powerful cyclones to hit the South Pacific region, caused extensive damage, affecting approximately 540,000 people, equating to over 60% of Fiji’s population (Fiji Meteorological Service, 2016; WHO, 2020). Moreover, the economic impact was substantial, with estimated damages of USD 1.4 billion, equivalent to 31% of Fiji’s GDP (World Bank, 2017).
Fiji Islands has established several policies and frameworks to enhance disaster risk management, such as the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) and the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP) (Fiji Government, 2018). These frameworks emphasize Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CB-DRM) and highlight the importance of inclusivity. However, there is often a disconnect between policy and practice. While policies advocate for inclusive approaches, actual implementation at the community level frequently falls short.
Various initiatives have been undertaken at the community level to enhance disaster preparedness and response. These include training programs, the establishment of community emergency response teams, and awareness campaigns. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives in truly including all community members is debatable.Many communities lack the resources and knowledge to implement truly inclusive DRM strategies (IFRC, 2020).
Challenges and Barriers
Several challenges hinder the effective implementation of IDRR at the community level in Fiji Islands. Primarily, many communities lack the resources and capacity to implement comprehensive IDRR strategies. Additionally, vulnerable groups are often underrepresented in disaster risk management planning and decision-making processes (Australian Government, 2019). Moreover, social norms and cultural practices can possibly hinder the participation of certain groups, particularly people with chronic illnesses, in IDRR activities. Furthermore, information and infrastructure are often not accessible to individuals with disabilities, limiting their ability to prepare for and respond to disasters (WHO, 2020).
Practice of Inclusivity in Fiji Islands
While some Fijian communities have great examples of inclusive behaviors, they are not widespread. Many community-based IDRR projects fail to engage vulnerable groups effectively. For example, evacuation plans frequently overlook the mobility demands of persons with disabilities, and early warning systems may be inaccessible to those with sensory impairments. Furthermore, some specific groups of individuals with unique needs during disasters are frequently underrepresented in disaster planning processes (IFRC, 2020).
Despite these efforts, several critical gaps have emerged in the empowerment of resilience through IDRR in Fiji Islands. There is no clear information on categorizing health risks and the specific health needs of people in Fiji who suffer from chronic health issues. This gap impedes effective planning and resource allocation (UNDRR, 2019). Moreover, emergency responders, healthcare providers, and community leaders must be prioritized during disasters as they often lack the necessary training to address the unique needs of individuals in the local communities (WHO, 2020).
Furthermore, many shelters and evacuation centers are not adequately equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments or other special needs. This includes physical barriers and inadequate medical supplies and equipment (IFRC, 2020; MoHMS, 2021). Additionally, efforts to support vulnerable groups are often fragmented and not merely integrated into broader Fijian DRM frameworks, resulting in inconsistencies and gaps in service delivery and attending to emergencies when needed (Fiji Government, 2018; MoHMS, 2021).
Recommendations for Enhancing IDRR in Fiji Islands
To address the gaps highlighted and to enhance the inclusivity of IDRR in Fiji Islands, the following recommendations are proposed:
Community-Based Support Networks
Foster community-based support networks to assist PSHCNs during disasters. Encourage neighborhood watch programs and volunteer initiatives to aid and ensure that PSHCNs are not isolated (FCOSS, 2018).
Development of Inclusive Policies
Actively involve the vulnerable population and their advocates in developing and implementing IDRR policies. The best approach in establishing advisory committees is to provide input and ensure that the needs of vulnerable groups are strongly heard and adequately addressed (Australian Government, 2019).
Build Local Capacity
Provide training and resources to local communities to enhance their capacity to implement IDRR strategies. This includes training for local disaster management committees and community leaders on IDRR practices (WHO, 2020; World Bank, 2017). This will promote community participation and actively prepare them to handle the most rare and unexpected emergencies based on their remoteness.
Integrate IDRR into National and Divisional Development Plans
Ensure that IDRR strategies are integrated into broader national, divisional, and community development plans and policies to promote sustainable and resilient communities. Based on the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR), developing and implementing policies that prioritize the inclusion of all community members, particularly marginalized and vulnerable groups, in DRR promotes Fiji Islands in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (UN-Habitat, 2017).
Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation
Establish stringent mechanisms for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of IDRR initiatives. Use of feedback systems to make necessary adjustments and improvements to ensure that IDRR efforts remain effective and inclusive (Australian Government, 2019).
Conclusion
The current state of IDRR efforts at the community level in Fiji Islands reveals significant progress but also highlights critical gaps in truly including all community members, particularly the most vulnerable. By addressing these gaps, Fiji Islands can enhance its resilience and ensure that IDRR efforts empower all individuals and communities. Implementing these recommendations will contribute to the overall effectiveness and inclusivity of DRR in Fiji Islands, making it a model for other neighboring vulnerable Pacific Island Nations.
References
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