Long-term data and recent events of natural hazards reveal a significant increase in the number of disasters, in their devastating impact on populations, and in their destruction of economic and social assets. The implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters, adopted by 168 member States at the January 2005 World Conference on Disaster Reduction, is to achieve a substantial reduction of disaster losses, with the assistance of the ISDR secretariat. The ISDR secretariat is supporting Governments in their development of disaster risk reduction strategies together with regional bodies, UN agencies and civil society organizations. Efforts to reduce disaster risks must be integrated into programmes and policies for sustainable development, poverty reduction, and supported through bilateral regional and international cooperation.

The Hyogo Framework recognizes the key role of Governments, both as the primary responsible for the Hyogo Framework’s implementation at the national level, as well as a stronger involvement in the governance of the ISDR system at the global level.

2. Objective of the meeting

During ECOSOC 2006, two side events relating to the ISDR will be held. The briefing on 19 July will focus on the progress in the implementation of the Hyogo Framework, while the briefing on 13 July will focus on strengthening the ISDR system.

This briefing on 19 July for delegates to ECOSOC will provide updated information on progress in the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action and the current status of follow-up activities. The purpose of the panel discussion is to build up support amongst the countries for promoting disaster risk reduction, by learning from experiences of other countries, and to reflect upon the role of the ISDR system in promoting HFA in a collaborative manger. Delegates will also be briefed in the current process on strengthening of the ISDR system.

3. Modalities

4. Agenda