In a world marred by unprecedented challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic, international cooperation and collaboration have become more crucial than ever. Recently, MEC Mzi Khumalo had the privilege of participating in the BRICS Disaster Management Meeting, held under the overarching theme of "Strengthening Post-Pandemic Socio-Economic Recovery in the BRICS Countries." This meeting marked a significant step towards addressing the complex issues of disaster management and post-pandemic recovery in the BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The BRICS group has evolved into a pivotal forum, uniting five of the world's major emerging economies. These nations collectively represent over 40% of the global population and are integral to shaping the future of international relations. The BRICS Disaster Management Meeting serves as a platform to harness the collective strength of these nations in addressing common challenges such as natural disasters and the socio-economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
BRICS Priorities: The article highlights two cabinet-approved priorities for BRICS countries: transforming education and skills development for the future and strengthening post-pandemic socio-economic recovery. These priorities align with the Sendai Framework's emphasis on enhancing disaster preparedness and recovery.
China's Initiatives: China emphasizes the need to address natural disasters exacerbated by urbanization and climate change. It calls for improved early warning systems and international collaboration in disaster risk reduction. China has increased its focus on disaster risk management, including supply chain management processes.
India's Commitment: India reaffirms its commitment to disaster risk management and reduction, aligning with the Sendai Framework. It aims to empower its cities to be more resilient, invests in early warning systems, and seeks partnerships with the private sector.
Russia's Efforts: Russia emphasizes the importance of combined efforts, including climate change adaptation strategies, to manage and reduce disasters. The inclusion of new BRICS member states is seen as enhancing disaster management cooperation.
South Africa's Priorities: South Africa calls for proactive measures, improved disaster management capabilities, and revisions to the disaster management system. It supports the implementation of a Joint Action Plan.
Shift from Response to Prevention: BRICS countries recognize the need to shift from post-disaster response to prevention and risk reduction to build sustainability and resilience. They value clear leadership, interagency collaboration, effective disaster management centers, mainstreaming disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, and information management.
Integration into Education: BRICS countries aim to integrate disaster management into their education systems. They seek partnerships within BRICS for disaster management education and training.
In summary, BRICS countries are committed to enhancing disaster risk reduction and management as part of their post-pandemic recovery efforts. They emphasize collaboration, early warning systems, education integration, and professionalization of disaster management to build resilience and sustainability in their communities.