Baku,Fineko/abc.az. The European Commission (EC) allocated ?2 million to the countries of South Caucasus for disaster risk reduction. The EC representation informed that it allocated ?2 million for disaster preparedness in Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

“These countries experience regularly natural phenomena such as landslides, mudslides, floods and earthquakes.  This aid will strengthen the capacities of local and national authorities to better prepare and to cope with such disasters,’ it was informed.

The funds will be channeled through the EC Humanitarian Aid department under the responsibility of Karel De Gucht, the EC Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid. The funding aims at increasing resilience and reducing the vulnerability of local communities and institutions by supporting strategies which enable them to prepare for, mitigate and respond better to natural disasters.

The projects will contribute to coordination and exchange of knowledge among national and regional authorities.  They will also provide basic know-how in disaster management; prepare early warning systems, and will promote awareness campaigns among the local communities, combined with practical exercises in evacuation, training.  In some areas, small-scale infrastructure works and services will also be financed. Women, children and vulnerable groups such as the disabled and ethnic minorities will be especially targeted.

Humanitarian aid projects, which are financed by EC, are implemented by non-governmental relief organizations, specialized UN agencies and the Red Cross societies.

22.12.2009 13:41