The small island state of Palau is vulnerable to droughts, typhoons, sea level rise, coastal erosion, and storm surges. It is already feeling impacts of climate change, the practical results of which include compromised water resources and increased threats to vital infrastructure, settlements, and facilities that support the livelihoods of island communities. In the face of climate change and long-standing hazards, Palau has focused on reducing the risk of disasters at all levels. The...
More DescriptionThe small island state of Palau is vulnerable to droughts, typhoons, sea level rise, coastal erosion, and storm surges. It is already feeling impacts of climate change, the practical results of which include compromised water resources and increased threats to vital infrastructure, settlements, and facilities that support the livelihoods of island communities. In the face of climate change and long-standing hazards, Palau has focused on reducing the risk of disasters at all levels. The Palau Climate Policy has been finalized and is used as a reference for national-, state-, and community-level planning. Efforts are also focused by the National Emergency Committee and the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) on developing the State Disaster Risk Management Plans that also adopt disaster risk reduction (DRR) processes. The Palau National Disaster Risk Management Framework 2010 (NDRMF) (amended in 2016) outlines the institutional arrangements for coordination and collaboration in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from the impact of any hazard to Palau. It also focuses on the strengthening of national disaster risk management structures and mechanisms to incorporate climate change adaptation. The U.S. and Palau have deep and long-standing ties based on shared history, values, and aspirations. Even before the September 2022 elaboration of the U.S.-Pacific Island Partnership, Palau was an integral part of cooperation and activities the U.S. undertook to help protect and conserve resources, mitigate climate change, and bolster sustainable social development throughout the broader region. To sustain the strength of this partnership, this Palau Disaster Management Reference Handbook focuses on the country's disaster management framework and DRR strategies. It also provides an overview of the government, geography, demographics, social cultural practices, and history of natural disasters. It is hoped that this handbook will serve as an initial source of information for individuals preparing for disaster management, response, and risk reduction activities or immediate deployment with Palauan partner responders in a crisis.