Disaster risk reduction and recovery

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) outlines clear targets and priorities to prevent and reduce disaster risks. Building the resilience of children and young people is vital to meet these targets and those of other global agreements. UNICEF’s DRR approach is part of the 2022-2030 Strategy for Climate, Environment, Energy and DRR, as well as UNICEF’s Sustainability and Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2030. 

To ensure every child survives and thrives, UNICEF promotes targeted action, backed by strategic investment in disaster risk reduction. We aim to reduce risk and strengthen preparedness and recovery for communities and services critical to children, like education, health care and nutrition.

We aim to empower all children and young people, particularly the most vulnerable, by:

Ensuring child-critical services are more inclusive, and resilient to and prepared for disasters

UNICEF integrates disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation activities into essential services for children. We do so by bringing resources, advocacy and technical expertise into our collaborations with governments and other partners – and most importantly, with children and young people themselves.  

We are a leading agency in strengthening education, health, mental health and psychosocial support, nutrition, social protection, child protection and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) for children. This includes bringing much-needed attention to gender equality and disability inclusion. It also includes cross-cutting work in sustainable energy, peacebuilding and social cohesion.

Engaging children through education, preparedness and resilience programmes

Children are already playing an active role in reducing disaster and climate risk by developing risk assessments, early warning systems, community-based actions, school evacuation protocols and recovery plans. They also stand as advocates, raising awareness through social media and in-person campaigns.

UNICEF supports children and young people to turn words into action. We help them advocate for their rights in local and international disaster management policies. This includes supporting their efforts by raising awareness, building capacities, strengthening protection laws, creating engagement opportunities and investing in their solutions.