Disaster risk reduction: understanding risk

Disaster risk reduction series, paper 2:

This paper explores the concept of risk and why a better assessment of risk is fundamental for protecting lives and livelihoods from disaster. It is the second of a series of six working towards the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in May 2013 providing an introduction to key discussions around disaster risk reduction (DRR).

It details the following points: (i) understanding disaster risk; (ii) risk is unevenly distributed; (iii) assessing risk; (iv) tackling underlying risk factors; and (v) combining local experience and scientific knowledge. It includes a case study on a new approach to risk in Malawi as an example of local ownership of disaster risk reduction, based in an understanding of real risks and capacities. It also presents some key messages and further readings.