A new NGO report is calling for a more tailored approach to disaster management in the Pacific, citing the confusion in the wake of Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu as proof.
Many of the islands in the Shepherds group were very difficult to land on making getting relief supplies safely ashore a treacherous task. Photo: RNZI / Koroi Hawkins
The report titled "One Size Doesn't Fit All" the report by Save the Children, Care, Oxfam and World Vision was presented to the Pacific consultations for the World Humanitarian Summit in Auckland this week.
The New Zealand Disaster Relief Forum chair Ian McInnes says the report's recommendations echo sentiments across the region that more emphasis is needed on disaster risk reduction and support for local governments.
"There is strong recognition here that a government is in charge it needs to stay in charge and it needs to come out of a disaster stronger than ever before because in the end it answers to its people and that has to be right across the board from shelter to food, medical response, to search and rescue, through to replacement of infrastructure."
