There is growing pressure to strengthen the resilience and preparedness of our local communities for future emergencies as climate change and security-related risks and threats increase, both globally and within the borders of the Union. In disasters and their aftermath, certain identity markers, such as gender or disability, make communities particularly vulnerable.

Did you know that around 15% of the world's population lives with some form of disability? This percentage is likely to increase in emergency situations. Vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, are among the most vulnerable and exposed in emergencies, yet they are often excluded from decision-making processes.

Gender inequalities determine the impact of disaster risks and vice versa. In particular, women face barriers in accessing information and resources to adequately prepare for and respond to disasters, including access to early warning and safe shelter. Women are also disproportionately affected in terms of return to work or relative loss of assets after disasters. Violence against women increases during emergencies.  It is crucial to identify and respond to these differences in emergency experiences. To address these gaps, awareness and equality must be considered as a fundamental principle that encompasses all aspects of the UCPM - from prevention to preparedness to response. 

Vulnerable groups and the organisations representing them should be consulted in the disaster management cycle, rather than being marginalised in disaster management planning and mitigation, as they are best placed to assess their needs - 'nothing about us without us' should be more than a slogan, it should be a guiding practice.