Central Bosnia Canton develops strategy for DRR
After several months of intensive work, the Central Bosnia Canton, with support from the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), has finalized its Cantonal Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction for the period from 2024 to 2030. This strategy, the first at the cantonal level in Bosnia and Herzegovina, introduces a comprehensive approach to mitigating risks, preparing for future disasters, and raising awareness about climate change resilience.
Holistic and Forward-Thinking
The strategy represents a holistic approach to disaster risk management, focusing on building capacities to reduce existing risks, enhance preparedness for future threats, and increase stakeholder awareness. By integrating disaster risk reduction into all relevant sectors, the Canton aims to foster a culture of resilience across the region.
Foundation for Future Initiatives
Designed to serve as a foundation for subsequent activities and project investments, the strategy aligns with the broader Central Bosnia Canton Development Strategy. It exemplifies a proactive stance on risk management, aiming for sustainable and long-term disaster preparedness.
International Commitments and Local Implementation
By adopting this strategy, Central Bosnia Canton contributes to Bosnia and Herzegovina's international commitments, including the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change 2015, and the Glasgow Climate Agreement 2021. The strategy underscores the Canton's dedication to fulfilling these global obligations through local actions.
Collaborative Efforts and Support
The development of the strategy was spearheaded by the Cantonal Administration of Civil Protection, with technical and professional support from the UNDRR. This collaboration follows Central Bosnia Canton's membership in the Making Cities Resilient 2030 initiative (MCR2030), which has already led to numerous resilience-building activities.
Community and Sectoral Involvement
Key to the strategy's success is the Canton Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, established in 2022. This platform includes all major cantonal ministries and representatives from responsible authorities and stakeholders. The strategy emphasizes the importance of involving vulnerable societal groups and seeks to engage the scientific community and non-governmental organizations in its implementation.
Looking Ahead
The Cantonal Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction is currently in its final stages and will soon be submitted to the Government of Central Bosnia Canton for final approval and official adoption. As Zenada Čaušević, Head of the Operations Center of the Cantonal Administration of Civil Protection, expressed,
"This strategy marks a significant step in increasing our preparedness and resilience to disasters. We are grateful for the professional and technical assistance from UNDRR in developing this critical plan."
With this forward-thinking strategy, Central Bosnia Canton sets a new standard for disaster risk management, demonstrating a strong commitment to safeguarding its communities and environment against future risks.