Indigenous Knowledge Disaster􏰀 Risk􏰀 Reduction Policy Note (original) (raw)

Research on the phenomena of disasters in the Asia-Pacific region over the past decades has resulted in a wealth of knowledge on the strong link between environment and disasters, and between human practices and the environment. Human practices that evolved over centuries have been tested by time and proven to be sustainable and effective in both reducing disasters and managing unavoidable hazards. Anthropological research of many traditional communities of the Asia and the Pacific have documented a wealth of indigenous knowledge that are passed down from generations and are internalized by the communities through a process of socialization and are part of their life styles. Humanitarian practice in the region by various organizations working in the area of disaster reduction and response has revealed a multitude of undocumented and overlooked practices in many indigenous communities. These practices exhibit a deep understanding and ability to cope with disasters through local actions. There is a growing realization that such practices must be acknowledged and will form the basis for a holistic approach to disaster reduction that links indigenous knowledge with modern technologies. Undoubtedly, there is compelling evidence for the Asia-Pacific region to recognize and strengthen its wealth of Indigenous Knowledge for providing local solutions to global problems of increasing disasters and climate change impacts. This Policy Note aims to provide a directional path for mainstreaming Indigenous Knowledge in Disaster Risk Reduction by national authorities and ministries of disaster management, ministries of education, institutions of higher education in disaster management, and international and national NGOs in Asian countries.

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