The Commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and ASEAN Day for Disaster Management 2024 took place on October 11, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in collaboration with United Nations agencies and the People's Committee of Thua Thien - Hue Province, under the theme "Empowering the Young Generation for a Safer Future Against Disasters."
October 13, which the United Nations General Assembly annually recognizes as the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, has also been chosen by ASEAN as ASEAN Day for Disaster Management to raise awareness among people and communities worldwide about mitigating disaster risks.
This year's theme, "Empowering the Young Generation for a Safer Future Against Disasters," emphasizes young people's critical role in shaping the future. According to Mr. Nguyen Van Phuong, Chairman of the People's Committee of Thua Thien - Hue Province, the young generation is the future of the country and global citizens who play a pivotal role in building a prosperous, sustainable province. Empowering young people for a safer future against disasters is an urgent and long-term strategic task of the province, utilizing various appropriate forms and methods.
The ceremony’s overview
Representing international organizations, Mr. Rémi Nono Womdim, the FAO Representative in Vietnam, expressed confidence that with international community support, Vietnam can create a world where natural hazards and risks do not turn into disasters, communities are well-prepared, and future generations are equipped to face any challenges.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Nguyen Hoang Hiep, stated that in terms of international cooperation, the two main priorities in disaster risk reduction are enhancing community resilience, with a particular focus on vulnerable areas, and strengthening disaster-resistant infrastructure, particularly emphasizing forecast and early warning systems.
At this stage, UN agencies, development organizations, and climate change and disaster-related funds prioritize providing access to financial resources to develop valuable programs and projects that enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities facing the growing impacts of disasters and climate change.