28 February 2024

G20 DRR Working Group holds first meeting under the Brazilian Presidency and embraces addressing inequalities and reducing vulnerabilities

Source(s): United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction

The G20 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group convened on 27 and 28 February for its first meeting under the Brazilian Presidency. The Chair of the Working Group, Mr. Wolnei Wolff Barreiros, opened the two-day meeting by emphasizing the urgent need to address inequalities and reduce vulnerabilities when scaling up action on disaster risk reduction. Representatives from member nations gathered for the meeting virtually and demonstrated a unified commitment to fostering inclusivity in disaster risk management strategies to bolster resilience.

During the meeting, participants underscored the critical role of socioeconomic disparities in exacerbating the impacts of hazards, emphasizing that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of disasters. Recognizing this reality, the Working Group unanimously appreciated the introduction of the topic of tackling inequalities and enhancing resilience among vulnerable populations. This topic is in addition to the five DRR priorities identified under India's presidency last year.

Ms. Paola Albrito, Acting Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, expressed her appreciation for the topic and offered the continued support of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, stating “We commit to supporting this group and the Presidency, especially around its priorities, which include combating inequality for inclusive protection of all. This is in line with our ethos of leaving no one behind and contributes to the 2030 Agenda.”

The discussion on the integration of this new priority into the G20's disaster risk reduction agenda reflects a growing recognition among global leaders of the need for comprehensive approaches to resilience-building. By addressing root causes of vulnerability, such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and social marginalization, the Working Group aims to mitigate the disproportionate impact of disasters on disadvantaged communities.

Moving forward, the G20 DRR Working Group plans to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders to develop targeted initiatives that promote equity and resilience in disaster risk management. Three additional meetings of the DRR Working Group, and a Ministerial Meeting, are planned under the Brazilian Presidency of the G20.