ReliefWeb

8 November coincided with the anniversary of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, Oxfam calls on governments around the world to start acting to protect their citizens against climate change. And across the Caucasus, we use using this global moment to push for more action on disaster risk reduction. The threat of climate change is still a reality for millions of people across the Caucasus, and many people still remember the effects of the deadly Spitak earthquake in Armenia, while many communities across the region still regularly face numerous landslides, storms and droughts.

To protect people’s lives and livelihoods Oxfam GB runs the “Supporting community resilience in the South Caucasus” programme in Armenia and Georgia. We are working with local communities and authorities on development, making sustainable community-based models, reducing vulnerability, and exposure to disasters and climate change effects. In three regions: Adjara (Georgia), Tavush and Vayots Dzor (Armenia) Oxfam and its local partners: Bridge of Hope, Black Sea Eco Academy, Support to Communities and Rural Communities Development Agency implement activities involving diverse community groups and individuals: men and women, children, youth and elder, governments, volunteers and people with special needs. The programme, run in the region since 2010, is supported by the European Commission (DIPECHO).

One of the Oxfam’s main goals is advocating for governments and communities, raising awareness on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. On 16th October it was the International Day for Disaster Reduction which we celebrated together with national authorities, partners and communities in both countries.

ARMENIA – DRR Day and a press briefing brought together in Yerevan 100 practitioners, experts, the DRR National Platform and ministry representatives, partners, and media to discuss the 3rd phase of the DIPECHO programme and highlight its key directions in the country.

GEORGIA – during the DRR Day celebration in Khulo, Adjara region over 80 children from local schools and communities exposed to disasters took part in a drawing competition, discussed potential hazards in the region and actions that should be taken in case of an emergency.