People in Guatemala and El Salvador are at high risk of falling victim to natural disasters. Although the effects of such disasters affect everyone, people with disabilities are disproportionately affected. In general, it is difficult for this population to participate in social and community life. They are often invisible and not included in the few government or community evacuation plans that exist. Together with our partner organisations ADISA and ACOPEDIS in Guatemala and CORDES in El Salvador, we want to change this.
People with disabilities are a forgotten population by governments. That is why these projects are so important to prevent dangers in emergency situations, especially for people with disabilities. I have learnt a lot about how to help others in the event of a disaster and how to claim my rights as a disabled person.
Miriam A., 42 years old
Project participant in El Salvador
Inclusive disaster plans for families and communities
Together with people with disabilities and their families, we develop emergency plans at community and family level. Each family creates a 'family emergency plan' and defines evacuation routes around their home. The plans are reinforced through practical exercises. First aid courses teach people how to care for themselves and others in the event of a disaster. Emergency backpacks are also distributed, containing medicines and food to help people survive for 72 hours in an emergency. The project also provides psychosocial support to community workers and families who have experienced crises and extreme situations.
Networking at regional and international level
To strengthen the rights of people with disabilities in Central America beyond the project communities, we work with government authorities and other civil society organisations. The project is implemented by a network of AWO International, Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB), Christoffel Blindenmission and six non-governmental organisations in Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.
The network meets internationally to share best practice. Together, they are also drafting legislation and advising governments on how to establish inclusive disaster prevention in Central American countries.
To reduce the risk of disasters, basic care packages and 72-hour backpacks are distributed to people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
Persons with disabilities are involved in the development and implementation of contingency plans for inclusive disaster risk management at national and regional levels.
Marking evacuation routes in vulnerable areas is important as it allows for quicker and safer escape, while barrier-free routes ensure that children, the elderly and people with disabilities can be evacuated safely.
Through public relations, CORDES and ADISA raise awareness of local problems and the networks of inclusive risk management.
First aid courses adapted to local hazards and risks prepare families to respond to the needs of children, the elderly and people with disabilities in emergency situations.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | Guatemala Sololá (Santiago Atitlán, San Juan La Laguna, San Marcos La Laguna und Panajachel), El Salvador La Libertad Sur (Santa Tecla und Comasagua), San Salvador Oeste (Apopa und Nejapa) Usulután Oeste (Jiquilisco, Puerto el Triunfo, San Agustín |
|---|---|
| Partner | ADISA, ACOPEDIS, CORDES |
| Activities |
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| Duration | 01.04.2024 - 28.02.2029 |
| Budget | 308.667€ |
| Sponsor | Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung, Aktion Deutschland Hilft |
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