Disaster relief in Asia
Asia is the continent most affected by natural disasters. The German Red Cross consequently provides a broad spectrum of humanitarian aid in Asian countries – emergency aid, disaster management as well as reconstruction.
With above-average frequency Asia is hit by natural disasters. Some of the extreme weather events such as floods, landslides or cyclones are seasonal and therefore relatively easy to predict.
Climate change multiplies the risk of weather disasters. It contributes to these phenomena increasing in intensity and frequency. This makes it even more difficult for the people affected to recover from the consequences of extreme weather events.
In addition, many countries in Asia are repeatedly affected by severe unpredictable events such as earthquakes and tsunamis. These disasters have a devastating impact on people and infrastructure, especially in urban areas.
GRC commitment in the respective countries
Bangladesh
Humanitarian aid for refugees and strengthening disaster preparedness
The people of Bangladesh suffer from recurring natural disasters: extreme weather conditions, floods and cyclones threaten human lives, endanger agriculture and destroy homes, schools and entire districts. Additionally, since 2017, numerous refugees from the Rakhine region in Myanmar have come to Bangladesh and are living there in precarious conditions in large refugee camps.
The German Red Cross supports the activities of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society on the ground, for example in the areas of disaster preparedness and disaster risk management; water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as shelter. In order to be able to provide assistance before a natural disaster strikes and thus reduce damage, the GRC promotes anticipatory action in Bangladesh.
Myanmar
Empowering disaster risk managementThe people in Myanmar face a wide range of challenges. Many suffer from poverty, while the country is extremely vulnerable to natural disasters such as storms, floods and earthquakes.
To ensure that people receive more effective assistance, we are supporting the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) in expanding its disaster preparedness structures and relief capacity. In addition to promoting the national relief system, we are strengthening the population's ability to help themselves in the event of natural disasters.
Pakistan
Pakistan is also regularly hit by severe natural disasters. To protect the affected population, the German Red Cross profoundly invested in disaster preparedness and relief in the past. In cooperation with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, the GRC implemented disaster control measures through a variety of interlinked initiatives with the aim of mitigating the negative effects of climate change.
Philippines
The GRC has been intensively involved in disaster prevention in the Philippines and specifically promoted the population´s resilience. We have supported particularly vulnerable communities so that people can better protect themselves from recurring natural disasters and secure their livelihoods in the long term.
