As cyclone season approaches, the Coalition Government is actively working to implement the draft National Disaster Risk Management Bill. This proposed legislation is a result of an extensive review of the Natural Disaster Management Act of 1998, and the Government views it as a means to ensure clarity and efficiency in responding to emerging hazards and disasters.
During a recent parliamentary session, Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, chairman of the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, highlighted that the Bill aims to provide clear guidelines for both State and non-State disaster responders. It will address various hazards that could lead to disasters, excluding civil unrest and terrorism.
A notable introduction from the draft Bill is the Fiji Cluster System, which will assemble all humanitarian organizations within the country to improve coordination of humanitarian efforts. Ratu Rakuita emphasized that this system will enhance collaboration across mechanisms and institutions relevant to disaster risk management.
The draft Bill also elaborates on the role of disaster service liaison officers, who will serve as the Government’s primary contact for disaster risk reduction and management. Ratu Rakuita explained that past experiences have underscored the importance of these officers for effectively implementing disaster risk management across all government sectors.
Additionally, the Bill aims to regulate foreign aid, addressing the influx of international donations following disasters, such as the $35 million received from Australia after Tropical Cyclone Winston. Ratu Rakuita mentioned that the Bill includes provisions to prevent wasteful expenditure of resources from donor partners and establish teams to facilitate international aid and implement multi-hazard early warning systems.
While establishing a register for non-State disaster risk management volunteers may raise concerns for some, Ratu Rakuita assured that the policy is intended to protect rather than restrict volunteers. It aims to create a framework ensuring their safety during disaster response efforts.
The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has been actively involved in the process of amending the 1998 Act. FCOSS coordinator Vani Catanasiga acknowledged the Government’s effort to incorporate feedback from civil society organizations (CSOs) but raised questions about whether government responders would be held to the same accountability standards as CSOs.
Catanasiga pointed out the necessity for mechanisms to ensure civil servants who respond to disasters adhere to the Core Humanitarian Standards, which are crucial for effective humanitarian response. She expressed that robust mechanisms are essential for the Bill to fulfill its objectives, and without them, the legislation might not achieve its intended impact.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of the proposed Bill will depend on its adoption and the commitment of all stakeholders involved in disaster risk reduction and management.