The Policy Framework for Disaster Management is a national sectoral policy of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Its main objective is to reinforce the development potential of the BVI by reducing risks from all hazards. For this main objective, the document provides for urgent integration of risk reduction strategies into development initiatives and all development planning; development and maintenance of a mitigation strategy to reduce the vulnerability of the BVI to disasters; upkeep of a Department of Disaster Management and National Emergency Operations Centre to ensure that an effective disaster management strategy is established and implemented, coordinate disaster management at various levels of government, promote and assist the implementation and institutionalization of disaster management activities in all sectors of society, act as a repository and conduit of information pertaining to disaster management, and ensure that the capacity for tracking, monitoring and disseminating information on phenomena and activities that trigger disaster events is established and maintained. Additionally, the document also envisages introduction of a new disaster management funding system which ensures that risk reduction measures are implemented, builds sufficient capacity to respond to disasters, provides for adequate post-disaster relief and recovery. Further, it provides for implementation of the Disaster Management Act which brings about a uniform approach to disaster management, addresses legislative shortcomings, establishment of a framework to enable communities to be informed, alert and self-reliant and capable of supporting and cooperating with government in disaster prevention and mitigation, and establishment of a framework for coordinating and strengthening the current fragmented training and community awareness initiatives. The document involves all government institutions, the private sector and civil society and other players, as well as all activities related to disaster management. The National Disaster Management Council is the central institution of the area. Also, the Department of Disaster Management will also be charged to reduce loss of life and property within the Territory of the BVI attributable to disasters by ensuring that adequate preparedness and mitigation measures, and response and recovery mechanisms are established to counteract the impact of natural and technological hazards.
英属维尔京群岛（英国） · 2003-01-01