Socioeconomic and Data challenges Disaster Risk Reduction in Europe

Disaster risk reduction (DRR) involves complex processes with different stakeholders at all administrative levels. Two elements in particular play a major role: the need to ensure stakeholders' interoperability through an efficient exchange of data, and the inclusion of socioeconomic factors which may influence DRR processes. This report aims at contributing to increase the global knowledge on these two elements, focusing on the related issues affecting DRR throughout the European continent. The information contained in this report would support national authorities and DRR stakeholders in the continued implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, and to address the specificities identified by the EFDRR Road Map.

Based on national briefs, surveys and interviews, recommendations stressed in this report include:
- At the regional/national level, plan sufficient funding for adaptation to climate-change related risks, in particular rising sea-level and extreme weather events such as heatwaves.
- At the national/local level, promote the creation of standards, standardized methods and technologies for collecting disaster-related data.
- At the local level, build capacity, particularly by improving general DRR-competence and by focusing on prevention measures and activities.

Among other conclusions, the report finds that data fragmentation or data unavailability is one of Europe's most significant risk management weaknesses. Improved data collection and consolidation will allow to better plan prevention, mitigation and preparedness measures to reduce risks and impacts. Fair disaster data will make disaster risks visible and facilitate evidence-based decisions and actions.