The Importance of Governance in Risk Reduction and Disaster Management

Abstract

This paper identifies institutional failure as the root cause for underdevelopment and susceptibility to disasters and explores their interdependent relationship. It is demonstrated that only if a country's governance structure enables the implementation and enforcement of public policies conducive to a country's economic and social development can sustainable livelihoods be achieved and susceptibility to disasters be reduced. Accountability, participation, predictability and transparency are identified as the key features of a governance structure that fosters development and supports risk reduction.