At DbI, we recognize the significant impact that natural and human-made disasters can have on people with deafblindness, persons in all their contexts and communities. Our commitment to safety, preparedness, and effective response is unwavering.
Every year, around 400 natural disasters occur worldwide. In addition, there are human-made disasters.
Natural and human-made disasters often occur in relatively remote, hard-to-reach places, often in the world’s poorer countries, which are least able to cope with the aftermath.
Natural and human-made disasters also tend to have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, particularly people with disabilities, children, and the elderly.
This issue is recognized and addressed in Article 11 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, among others.
There is no doubt that people living with deafblindness are among the most marginalized people in the world and therefore a particularly vulnerable group.
DbI therefore calls for all necessary measures to be taken to ensure the protection and safety of people living with deafblindness in situations of natural or human-made disasters, including humanitarian emergencies. Please contact DbI if you feel we can be of support with information on deafblindness, advice, and our worldwide network in such an unfortunate situation.
Let’s stand together, continue to work towards fair and positive global partnerships, and do all we can to help those affected by natural and human-made disasters.
1. Safety and Prevention
We encourage to prioritize the safety of people with deafblindness, persons in all their contexts and communities, and stakeholders by proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks associated with natural and human-made disasters.
2. Preparedness
We encourage to invest in robust disaster preparedness plans and training to ensure people with deafblindness, persons in all their contexts and communities are well-equipped to respond effectively in times of crisis.
3. Community Support
We encourage our membership organizations to support the communities in which they operate during disaster events by providing resources and assistance as needed.
4. Environmental Stewardship
We aim and encourage to minimize human-made impact on the environment and strive to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.
5. Rapid Response
In the event of a disaster, we pledge to respond swiftly, mobilize resources, and collaborate with relevant authorities to help affected individuals and areas recover.
6. Continuous Improvement
We encourage to learn from past experiences and continuously improve disaster management strategies.
This statement reflects our organization’s values and our promise to act responsibly in the face of natural and human-made disasters. We understand that by doing so, we contribute to the safety and well-being of the people and the communities we serve.
DbI Board and Management Committee, and World Federation of the Deafblind WFDB, December 2023