Vietnam is expected to be among the first 30 extreme risk countries affected by disasters and climate change in the next 30 years. In the previous 20 years, 1990-2010, Vietnam ranked sixth among countries which suffered the biggest losses from disasters with 445 deaths and damages worth US$1.8 billion annually, according to the United Nations statistics.
The Norway Foreign Ministry funded a disaster risk reduction project targeting 32 communes in Phu Yen, Binh Dinh and Lao Cai provinces at an estimated cost of US$1.8 million for five years (2010-2014).
More than US$1 million has been disbursed so far for 21 communes in these provinces.
The project aims to improve the capacity of local authorities, Red Cross chapters and people to cope with disasters and climate change. Its main focus is on vulnerable groups, including women, children, disabled people, elderly people and others living in high-risk areas.
Since 2010, more than 100,000 people have directly benefited from the building of bridges, drainage systems, shelter houses, cement roads, hygiene and water supply systems, early-warning systems, and rescue and relief operations.
From September 24th to 26th, the Vietnam Red Cross in coordination with its Norway partner organized a seminar in Hanoi to share experience in disaster risk reduction (DRR).
The seminar featured representatives from the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Ministry of Education and Training, the Norway Embassy, Red Cross organisations from Vietnam, China, and Norway, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and other international organisations involved in DRR in Vietnam.
The seminar provided a chance for participants to get updated on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation activities in the country.
