The Asia-Pacific region is the region that is most adversely affected by disasters, including those caused by climate change. Persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups are at higher risk of death, injury and additional impairments, as a result of exclusion from disaster risk reduction policies, plans and programmes. Public service announcements are often issued in formats and language that are not accessible by persons with disabilities. In addition, emergency exits, shelters and facilities tend not to be barrier-free. Regular participation of persons with disabilities in emergency preparedness drills and other disaster risk reduction measures at the local and district levels could prevent or minimize risk and damage when disasters occur. Physical and information infrastructure that incorporates universal design principles would improve the chances of safety and survival.
Target 7.A
Strengthen disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction planning
Target 7.B
Strengthen implementation of measures on providing timely and appropriate support to persons with disabilities in responding to disasters
Indicators for tracking progress
Core indicators
- 7.1. Availability of disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction plans
- 7.2. Availability of disability-inclusive training for all relevant service personnel
- 7.3. Proportion of accessible emergency shelters and disaster relief sites
Supplementary indicators
- 7.4. Number of persons with disabilities who died or were seriously injured in disasters
- 7.5. Availability of psychosocial support service personnel that have the capacity to assist persons with disabilities affected by disasters
- 7.6. Availability of assistive devices and technologies for persons with disabilities in preparing for and responding to disasters