Problems in the world 2007

Problem in the world happened in 2007, it's a problem shook the world is stronger than the Hiroshima bomb

"Hiroshima bomb is now symbolic of what happens even in the most 'developed ' of countries, when disaster hits communities already disadvantaged by deeply rooted forms of discrimination. This vital report demands awareness of the reality of discrimination in the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance."

–Gay J. McDougall, United Nations Independent Expert

on minority issues

What, then, is the reality for these groups when disaster strikes? Hidden, ignored or simply invisible, the most vulnerable – and those potentially in the greatest need – are rarely, if ever, at the forefront of aid operations.

Gender, race, colour, religion, age – there are so many reasons why people can be excluded from their society. Those who are face an uphill struggle for equality, even if they have the strength and wherewithal to take the first steps. However many do not.

This report turns the spotlight on these groups, examining how and why they face discrimination. It calls on communities, governments and agencies to work harder to identify the most vulnerable and work together to ensure that their specific needs are addressed in an emergency.

Disasters do not discriminate: people do

Disasters do not cause discrimination: they exacerbate it – and discrimination in an emergency setting can be life-threatening. The most marginalized and vulnerable risk not surviving the crisis or, if they do, they .are then overlooked in plans to recover and regain their livelihoods

download the 1 chapter

Overcoming multiple disasters: discriminating against minoritiesThere are minority groups in every society. They are marginalized to varying degrees due to nationality, race and traditional caste divisions, or simply due to the size of their population. Some, like indigenous or nomadic peoples, may have limited influence within national government.

download the 2 chapter

Older people and discrimination in crises Few question why it is often the young and fit who join the queues for food and other essentials; they are there because they are young and fit, capable of taking the aid to their extended families. However, there is a pervasive and dangerous assumption that family ties and community structures will ensure that older people’s needs are met at times of emergency.

download the 3 chapter

Disability and disasters: towards an inclusive approach Persons with disabilities are frequently and systematically marginalized in everyday life. At times of emergency, this marginalization is heightened. Someone who is blind or deaf may not be aware of any evacuation plan; someone who is immobile may not be able to flee danger; someone with learning difficulties may find themselves pushed to the back of the queue for food.

download the 4 chapter

The urgency of equality: ending discrimination against women and its consequences in emergency situationsWomen and girls have long been the victims of discrimination in its many forms. It is these various layers of discrimination that put women in particular danger during times of emergency. Early warning systems may not take into account the fact that many girls are kept away from school and cannot read.

download the 5 chapter

Dealing with discrimination in disaster recoveryThere are some positive steps humanitarian agencies can take to tackle discrimination. Initial assessments need to be inclusive and longer-term evaluations clearly defined and open. Representatives of all groups within affected communities should be involved in the recovery effort.

download the 6 chapter

You can download the full version of the report click here

problems in the world