Decree-Law No. 16/2017 establishing the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.

This Decree-Law establishes the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (PNRRC) in Guinea-Bissau as a national mechanism for the planning, coordination and implementation of policies, programmes and projects aimed at reducing disaster risks. The legislation responds to the growing threat posed by natural, socio-natural and technological disasters, including floods, droughts, landslides and major accidents, which are being intensified by climate change, environmental degradation and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Its principal objective is to strengthen national preparedness, prevention, resilience and response capacities through a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach, in line with international and regional strategies for disaster risk reduction. The Decree-Law creates an institutional framework bringing together government ministries, public institutions, civil society organisations, regional authorities, research bodies and development partners. It establishes an interministerial committee, specialised working groups and regional civil protection structures responsible for policy coordination, risk assessment, emergency preparedness, public awareness, environmental management and resource mobilisation. The law also promotes the integration of disaster risk reduction into national development planning, education and public policy, with the aim of reducing vulnerability, improving emergency management, protecting communities and supporting sustainable development throughout Guinea-Bissau.

Guinée-Bissau · 2017-07-27