Disaster Risk Reduction Law in Serbia
The Disaster Risk Reduction Law is a legal framework for a sustainable response to natural disasters. It focuses on the prevention and mitigation of hazards and provides for cross-sectoral cooperation and integrated action. The law also recognizes the primary role of local communities in disaster risk reduction. It also calls for a gradual use of means and forces to address disaster risks, and promotes human rights and participation, solidarity, and public information. The law is a comprehensive and integrated management system for disaster risk reduction and emergency situations, including the rescue of people and the recovery from the consequences.
Chapters of Disaster Risk Reduction Law
The Disaster Risk Reduction Law in Serbia is a comprehensive document that lays out the rules and regulations for the general resilience and preparedness to disasters. It includes articles governing the rights and obligations of citizens, state institutions, and private legal persons. The law also includes provisions related to disaster risk reduction, emergency management, early warning, and climate change adaptation.
In order to reduce disaster risk, governments and other organizations must consider the drivers of risk, including the environment, poverty, and inequality. Addressing these drivers will reduce the impact of disasters and help maintain sustainable development.
Authority of NDRRMC Chairperson
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the government has appointed a new council, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. This body will have the authority to implement the plan of the NDRRMC and to handle the response to disasters. The new council will be composed of the chairperson of the NDRRMC and the secretaries of several departments, including the Department of National Defense. The Council will also include the secretary of Interior and Local Government and the secretary of Social Welfare and Development.
The NDRRMC Chairperson will have the authority to call upon other government entities, non-government organizations, and the Reserve Force, as defined under Republic Act No. 7077. The purpose of the Council is to implement the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Program and to provide leadership for the ongoing development of the disaster management program.
Powers of NDRRMC Vice Chairpersons
The NDRRMC is composed of over 30 member agencies. Its Chairperson is the Secretary of National Defense. Vice Chairpersons include the Secretary of Interior and Local Government, the Secretary of Science and Technology, and the Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). These agencies are responsible for various activities related to disaster preparedness and response.
As the policy-making body for disaster risk management, the NDRRMC is mandated to develop a framework for disaster risk reduction and management. As such, the committee must provide a comprehensive approach to disaster risk management and reduction. The chair of the committee is the Secretary of the Department of National Defense, while the executive director is the Administrator of the DND Office of Civil Defense. The committee also includes the DOTr, DICT, and other governmental agencies, as mandated by Executive Order Number 32.
Effectiveness of NDRRMC
The report examines different countries’ disaster risk reduction laws and policies, and points out areas where legislation could be improved. It also highlights issues identified by the International Red Cross and state parties. It draws upon research conducted in 31 countries of varying risk profiles, income levels, and human development levels.
The article also highlights the right of indigenous peoples to be involved in disaster risk reduction initiatives. These groups should be included as full partners, and their input and traditional knowledge should be taken into account.
Efficacy of NDRRMC Chairperson
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is urging the public to stay alert and follow safety warnings. The Council’s chairperson, Department of National Defense Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., has called an emergency meeting at the NDRRM Operations Center. It was attended by the Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez and Usec Ricardo Jalad.
The NDRRMC is composed of various bodies which are accountable to the regional government. It may call upon the government and other nongovernment organizations, civic organizations, or even the reserve forces. According to the Republic Act No. 7077, the NDRRMC chairperson is also responsible for implementing disaster-related activities.