Building climate resilience for all: Towards inclusive recovery – Mercy Corps on the VOL 36
Mercy Corps' article in VOICE Out Loud 36 emphasises the importance of inclusive recovery for building resilient communities in the face of the climate crisis. The escalating impacts of climate change disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, especially women and girls in low-income communities. The article highlights the inadequacy of merely returning communities to a pre-disaster state and advocates for a more holistic approach to recovery, as outlined in global commitments like the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
The article underscores the multidimensional nature of disasters, impacting the physical, social, and economic aspects of communities. It stresses the need for risk-informed, inclusive, and multi-dimensional recovery strategies that address the exacerbated inequalities during disasters. Women and girls, often hindered by socio-cultural norms, face disproportionate impacts and are typically excluded from recovery strategies. Involving women in decision-making, ensuring their access to information, and providing them with financial resources are crucial for effective recovery and resilience building. The article cites examples where women's involvement in community disaster management has led to more sustainable outcomes, demonstrating the critical role gender plays in enhancing overall disaster recovery and resilience.