In Palestine (the occupied Palestinian territories - oPt) there are a
number of challenges in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR),
notably natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, desertification and
droughts. Seismological studies show that there is a high probability of
damaging earthquakes occurring in the region. At the same time,
engineering studies show that seismic vulnerability of common buildings
and infrastructures in the oPt is high. Major events triggered by climate
changes and seismic activities may become trans-boundary. The
objectives of this paper are to help establish a profile of DRR in the oPt
and further help identify the needs of the oPt in the field of disaster risk
reduction and management. In addition to the risk assessment, a review
of existing legislation, capacities and shortages in various areas of needs,
strengths and weaknesses in all elements of DRR plus institutional
mechanisms towards disaster preparedness and prevention has been
carried out. National and international initiatives toward DRR and case
studies of (best) practices in the oPt were also reviewed. Historic data on
recorded disaster related incidents pertaining to the number of people
killed, the number of people affected and the economic loss incurred
provides the main criteria for the risk assessment.
