Civil society means the NGOs, residents' associations, youth groups, faith organisations and volunteers who live closest to risk. In a disaster they are often the first to help and the last to leave.
Where civil society makes the difference
Before
Awareness drives, community hazard maps, local emergency plans, trained volunteers and school programmes.
During
Spreading verified warnings, helping neighbours evacuate, first aid, shelters and relief distribution.
After
Supporting recovery, helping people reach entitlements, rebuilding livelihoods and monitoring progress.
Why it matters
- Local people know their area, its lanes, vulnerable families and resources
- Communities can respond within minutes, before outside help arrives
- Trust: people listen to familiar faces during a crisis
- National policy encourages community-based disaster risk reduction and the involvement of every stakeholder
Work with ODM
ODM trains volunteers and community groups and helps them make local plans. Join as a volunteer or ask for a community training.
Sources: National Policy on Disaster Management 2009; NDMA community-based disaster risk reduction guidance