The significance of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and the role of education in building disaster-resilient communities is crucial. It highlights Pakistan's military's pivotal role in both national and international disaster relief efforts, demonstrating its capacity and commitment to global humanitarian assistance.
The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed annually on October 13, highlights global efforts to reduce exposure to natural hazards. Disasters like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis can devastate millions of lives, especially when coupled with vulnerability and insufficient mitigation measures. However, proactive and systematic strategies can help minimize the risks posed by these natural events.
While it is impossible to fully eliminate disaster risk, improving prevention and preparedness significantly strengthens community resilience. This article advocates for a shift from reactive post-disaster responses to preemptive actions that help countries enhance their capacity to manage disaster and climate risks.1
The growing number of disasters, many worsened by climate change, poses a significant threat to the well-being of children and youth. UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund) reports that nearly one billion children around the world face severe risks due to climate-related impacts, including disasters linked to climate change. In 2022, countries such as Chad, Gambia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh experienced the highest number of children affected by flooding in over three decades.
The theme for the 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), observed on October 13, highlights the importance of education in safeguarding and empowering youth for a disaster-resilient future. This aligns with the upcoming Summit of the Future in September 2024, where "youth and future generations" will be a central focus.
IDDRR 2024 urges nations to leverage the education system to mitigate disaster risks faced by school-aged children, emphasizing two critical areas:
▪ Ensure the protection of children and youth by investing in disaster-resilient schools and educational facilities. Schools must be safe environments, equipped with early warning systems to shield students from potential dangers.
▪ Equip children and youth with the knowledge and skills to respond to disaster risks through tailored, age-appropriate education. By fostering an understanding of disaster preparedness, children can become proactive in responding to early warnings and act as change agents within their communities.
UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund) reports that nearly one billion children around the world face severe risks due to climate-related impacts, including disasters linked to climate change.
Countries are encouraged to adopt and implement the Comprehensive School Safety Framework 2022-2030, developed by the Global Alliance for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience in the Education Sector (GADRRRES), under the leadership of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and UNICEF.2 Militaries have been crucial in many stages of the disaster management cycle, particularly during the response phase. Their roles include search and rescue operations, providing relief, transportation, communication support, medical assistance, ensuring security, supplying food and water, and rebuilding infrastructure, among other tasks.3
The armed forces worldwide are tasked with engaging in warfare if deterrence efforts fail. To fulfill this primary responsibility, they undergo specialized training and are equipped accordingly. In times of peace, these forces prepare for potential future conflicts. Additionally, they are uniquely positioned to respond to both natural and human-made disasters, carrying out what are known as benign operations. In Pakistan, all three branches of the military consistently remain prepared and willing to take on these tasks.
The theme for the 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), observed on October 13, highlights the importance of education in safeguarding and empowering youth for a disaster-resilient future.
Due to Pakistan’s distinct geographical location and varied climate, the country is highly susceptible to both natural and human-made disasters. In recent decades, it has experienced frequent events such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, cyclones, and droughts, especially over the last 20 years.4 Pakistan has the highest average number of people physically exposed to floods on an annual basis in South Asia.5 The Pakistan Army has played a crucial role in the country's development, particularly in responding to national emergencies. Throughout history, the military has been a key force in addressing both natural and man-made disasters.
When crises arise, the government frequently relies on the armed forces to assist in managing humanitarian emergencies and disaster relief efforts. As the only institution in Pakistan with the necessary organization and resources, the army is uniquely capable of delivering relief in the face of such a significant disaster. The army's involvement in disaster management has been essential in Pakistan's history. As the nation's most capable and well-equipped institution, the Pakistan Army is uniquely suited to conduct large-scale relief efforts in response to the recent disaster.6
Equipped with a well-organized structure, the Pakistan Army supports the government in emergencies by providing medical services, conducting rescue operations, and delivering essential aid. The army's personnel are highly trained and possess the professional skills needed to assist during crises, often working in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). As a military institution, the Pakistan Army serves as a critical resource for ensuring the effective delivery of emergency assistance.7
The Pakistan Armed Forces have played a crucial role in global disaster relief efforts, leveraging their extensive training and resources to respond to emergencies beyond national borders. Historically, Pakistan has extended aid to numerous countries facing natural disasters, showcasing its commitment to humanitarian assistance on an international scale.
One notable example of Pakistan's global disaster relief efforts occurred after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, where Pakistan provided medical teams, supplies, and military support to affected nations, including Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Additionally, Pakistan Armed Forces participated in relief operations following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, sending medical personnel and supplies to support recovery efforts.
The Pakistan Army has played a crucial role in the country's development, particularly in responding to national emergencies. Throughout history, the military has been a key force in addressing both natural and man-made disasters.
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Pakistan was one of the few countries that extended its hand to the United States, sending supplies such as tents, blankets, and ready-to-eat meals. The Pakistan Army also offered assistance through relief teams ready for deployment.
Pakistan responded swiftly to the 2015 earthquake in Nepal by sending its armed forces for relief and rescue missions. The Government of Pakistan pledged USD 1 million as a contribution for utilization towards the reconstruction and rehabilitation process currently going on in Nepal after the devastating earthquakes.8 The Pakistan Army's medical teams, search and rescue units, and engineers played a vital role in saving lives, treating the injured, and providing relief supplies.
A recent case study of Pakistan's disaster relief efforts is its response to the 2022 floods in Afghanistan. Following devastating floods that caused widespread damage and loss of life, the Pakistan Armed Forces mobilized rapidly to provide assistance. Pakistan sent convoys carrying food, medical supplies, and tents to support displaced Afghans. The Pakistan Army also deployed medical teams to provide urgent care to those affected by the floods, reflecting a commitment to regional stability and humanitarian aid.
These initiatives reflect the Pakistan Armed Forces' readiness and willingness to contribute to global disaster relief efforts, reinforcing their role as a key player in international humanitarian assistance. Pakistan's long-standing commitment to contributing to global disaster risk management is a tradition that underscores its willingness to extend assistance whenever and wherever required.
Pakistan’s contributions in these international disaster relief missions have had a significant positive impact on affected communities. In Afghanistan, the assistance provided by the Pakistan Army helped to alleviate the immediate suffering of flood victims by supplying essential relief goods and medical care. This effort fostered goodwill and strengthened Pakistan’s ties with its neighbor.
One notable example of Pakistan's global disaster relief efforts occurred after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, where Pakistan provided medical teams, supplies, and military support to affected nations, including Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Additionally, Pakistan Armed Forces participated in relief operations following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, sending medical personnel and supplies to support recovery efforts.
In Nepal, Pakistan's military aid saved lives, provided timely medical assistance, and aided in the country’s recovery. These operations demonstrated Pakistan’s ability to respond to large-scale crises swiftly and efficiently, earning appreciation from the international community and building strong diplomatic relationships.
Despite their success, the Pakistan Armed Forces have faced several challenges during international disaster relief missions:
▪ Logistical Difficulties. Delivering aid to remote or heavily damaged areas posed significant challenges due to destroyed infrastructure or difficult terrain, as seen in the mountainous regions of Nepal.
▪ Coordination with International Agencies. Working alongside various international relief organizations often requires meticulous coordination to avoid overlapping efforts and ensure the effective use of resources.
▪ Cultural Sensitivities. Operating in foreign countries requires a careful approach to cultural and political sensitivities, especially in regions with complex geopolitical situations like Afghanistan.
▪ Resource Limitations. As a developing country, Pakistan’s armed forces sometimes face constraints in terms of resources, which can limit the extent of their operations, especially in large-scale international missions.
To conclude, the contributions of the Pakistan Armed Forces to global disaster relief have been significant and impactful, reinforcing the country’s role as a responsible member of the international community. Through timely interventions, Pakistan has not only provided life-saving assistance but also strengthened diplomatic ties with other nations. These operations have showcased the armed forces’ capability to respond swiftly to emergencies, whether at home or abroad, despite the logistical and political challenges they face.
Overall, the Pakistan Armed Forces have proven to be a key player in international humanitarian efforts, extending their resources and expertise to aid countries in need during times of crisis. Their contributions have had a lasting impact on affected communities, underscoring the importance of military involvement in global disaster relief.
The writer has done MPhil in Peace and Conflict Studies from National Defense University, Islamabad.
E-mail: [email protected]
1. International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, https://www.unesco.org/en/days/disaster-risk-reduction
2. Concept Note: International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2024, “Empowering the next generation for a resilient future”, UNDDR, May 28, 2024, https://iddrr.undrr.org/publication/concept-note-international-day-disaster-risk-reduction-2024
3. Katayoun Jahangiri, “Military Involvement in Disaster Management: Advantages and Disadvantages”, Conference paper published in October 2018, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328276574_Military_Involvement_in_Disaster_Management_Advantages_and_Disadvantages
4. Rabeea Jabbar and Muhammad Makki, “Managing health disasters and Civil–Military Cooperation”, Journal of Disaster Risk Studies, https://www.preventionweb.net/media/73132/download?startDownload=20240912
5. “Pakistan IDRL Report”, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, https://disasterlaw.ifrc.org/sites/default/files/media/disaster_law/2020-09/Pakistan%20IDRL%20Report%20FINAL.pdf
6. Umair Jamal, “Military Helps With Rescue and Relief Efforts in Flood-Ravaged Pakistan”, The Diplomat, published on September 28, 2022, https://thediplomat.com/2022/09/military-helps-with-rescue-and-relief-efforts-in-flood-ravaged-pakistan/
7. Ali Raza and Sirajul Haq Kandhro, “National Disaster Management Authority in Pakistan: Role of Pakistan Army in disaster management, Journal of Social and Administrative Sciences”, March 2015, Volume 2, Issue 1, https://www.kspjournals.org/index.php/JSAS/article/view/130/301
8. “Pakistan Pledges USD 1 Million for Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Work in Nepal”, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, June 25, 2015, https://mofa.gov.pk/pakistan-pledges-us-1-million-for-reconstruction-and-rehabilitation-work-in-nepal
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