LocationsThe Role of Universities and Academia in Disaster Risk Management
November 27, 2024
Harnessing Knowledge for Resilience in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Disaster Risk Management (DRM) is a critical component of safeguarding communities and nations against the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters. In Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), DRM is not just the responsibility of the government and emergency services but also involves the collaboration of academic institutions, research centers, and universities. These institutions play a vital role in enhancing the scientific and technical capacities necessary for effective disaster risk management, prevention, and resilience building.
Legal and Institutional Framework for Disaster Risk Management
BiH, as a signatory to the Stabilization and Association Agreement with the European Union (EU), has a permanent obligation to engage in continuous efforts to establish a robust and sustainable disaster risk management system. This responsibility is not just limited to disaster response but encompasses comprehensive planning, preparedness, and prevention strategies. The aim is to reduce the impact of disasters through effective mitigation measures, the establishment of early warning systems, and the development of response capacities.
As a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030), BiH has committed to advancing Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies that include strengthening technical and scientific capabilities. Priority 1 of the Sendai Framework - Understanding Disaster Risk - calls for the enhancement of national capacities to assess and reduce disaster risks. This includes consolidating existing knowledge, applying methodologies for risk assessment, and developing models to understand the vulnerability and exposure to various hazards. The Sendai Framework also emphasizes the importance of fostering cooperation among domestic institutions, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, and notably, the academic community.
The Academic Community’s Role in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)
Universities and research institutions serve as key players in implementing the DRR agenda by producing critical research, developing new models for disaster risk assessment, and educating and training future professionals in emergency management. Their role extends beyond research and education to include active participation in national and international DRR initiatives and capacity-building efforts.
The inclusion of the academic community in DRR efforts has been recognized in BiH, and representatives from faculties and academic organizations have expressed their great interest for enhanced cooperation between universities and DRR platforms.
At a recent workshop organized in Jahorina by the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with support from the Joint UN-Swiss DRR Programme, the importance of collaboration was highlighted as essential to enhancing the effectiveness of disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives. The workshop, bringing together representatives from state institutions and academia, emphasized the importance of transforming scientific research into actionable policies and strategies.
The need for fostering lifelong learning, raising awareness about DRR issues, and improving the exchange of information between universities and disaster response agencies was also highlighted. Academia’s role is not only about contributing to the scientific aspects of DRR but also about promoting the principles of continuous education and public awareness.
Building Capacity for Disaster Resilience
One of the primary goals of involving the academic community in DRR is to build and enhance countrywide capacity for disaster resilience. Universities can develop and offer specialized training programs, courses, and certifications that equip individuals and professionals with the knowledge and skills required to address the challenges posed by climate crisis and disasters. Furthermore, academic institutions play a pivotal role in conducting research on disaster risks, which is fundamental to developing accurate and predictive models that can improve disaster preparedness.
Their involvement ensures that BiH not only meets its obligations under international agreements, such as the Sendai Framework, but also builds a strong foundation for disaster resilience through research, innovation, and capacity building.
The Joint programme "Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainable Development in Bosnia and Herzegovina" supports disaster risk management efforts in the country and aligns with the priority actions of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. This alignment reflects the challenges and needs for reducing disaster risks in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The programme focuses on strengthening preparedness and adaptation to disaster risks and mitigating their negative impacts across all development sectors. Particular attention is given to the most vulnerable and high-risk local communities.
The Joint programme is supported and funded by the Government of Switzerland, the United Nations (UN), and the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is implemented by UN agencies in BiH, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with domestic government institutions.