The World Risk Report 2018

Whether it be an earthquake or a tsunami, a cyclone or floods, the risk of a natural event turning into a disaster always depends only partly on the force of the natural event itself. The living conditions of the people in the regions affected and the options available to respond quickly and to provide assistance are just as significant.

Those who are prepared, who know what to do in the event of an extreme natural event, have a greater chance of survival. Countries that see natural hazards coming, that are preparing for the consequences of climate change and are providing the financial means required will be better prepared for the future. The WorldRiskReport, published by the German alliance of NGOs engaged in the development cooperation, should contribute to look at these links at a global level and draw future-oriented conclusions regarding assistance measures, policies and reporting.

As an essential part of the WorldRiskReport is the WorldRiskIndex, created by United Nations University's Institute for Environment and Human Security, indicates the risk of disaster in consequence of extreme natural events for 172 countries. In 2018 the WorldRiskIndex was calculated and slightly modified by the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV) of Ruhr University Bochum.

This year the focus is on “Child Protection and Children’s Rights” which draws attention to a particularly vulnerable section of the population. The number of children who have had to flee because of disasters, who were exploited, abused, injured, or even killed over the last few years is alarming. About one out of every four children worldwide lives in a country affected by disasters. The WorldRiskReport 2018 explores the rights of children in the context of disasters, explains the particular vulnerability of young people, and clarifies the vital need for action in this area.

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