This year’s
World Disasters Report, released by the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) examines the importance of building resilience in order to meet the growing needs for humanitarian action around the world.
The report discuses what exactly building resilience means in a complex world with many different types of need, such as rebuilding after an earthquake or recovering from conflict. In the face of increased need, the report argues that using evidence-based approaches to investing limited resources can help recovery, as well as reducing and preventing crises.
So what are we doing to help build resiliency?
The Canadian Red Cross is currently working with sister Red Cross Societies to help strengthen their capacity to respond to disasters and emergencies. This includes training sessions, where participants from Red Cross societies learn about things like organizing emergency shelters,
Emergency Response Unit
(ERU) training, or how to make sure structure is in place
to respond effectively to a disaster or emergency. This training can mean that national Red Cross Societies are prepared to respond to emergencies and disasters as they occur.
We are also working in partner countries to help with things like strengthening healthcare through programs like Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH), which aims to improve the quality of care for mothers and children in vulnerable areas.
The Canadian Red Cross is also working to build resiliency within Canada. We are working to educate Canadians about
violence and bullying prevention, support individuals and families through programs like Meals on Wheels, and helping to build resilience in partnership with Indigenous communities.
Learn more about the case for building resilience and what that could mean for international humanitarian aid in the
2016 World Disasters Report.