Disasters are one of the most significant causes of poverty, and poverty is one of the key factors that leads to disasters having devastating impact. The majority of poor communities around the world are vulnerable to disasters of one kind or other. Helping churches and their communities prevent disasters, reduce their impact when they do occur, and rebuild livelihoods and communities in the aftermath is therefore crucial. This work is known as disaster management.
The work of disaster management can best be done when local churches and their communities work together with specialist NGOs and relief agencies. This section explores the strengths and weaknesses of the church in disaster management, and the potential complementary roles they can play alongside specialist agencies.
Strengths of the local church in disaster management
Constraints and challenges of working with the local church in disaster management
Roles of the local church in disaster management
Key principles for NGOs and relief agencies when working with local churches in disaster management
Case studies
Guidelines and training materials on how to lead participatory processes that help communities reduce the risk of disasters.
In-depth resources on disaster management and disaster risk reduction