Reducing Vulnerability OCT (EU-C)
Supporting Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in Pacific Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs)
Through this project, SOPAC will expand its engagement with Pacific overseas countries and territories (OCTs) - New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna, and Pitcairn Islands - to further develop and implement disaster risk solutions adapted to their particular context. Funded by the European Union (European Development Fund 9, C Envelope) for €5.6 million over 4 years, this project contributes to reducing the vulnerability of OCTs to losses from natural and human-induced disasters, such as drought (Pitcairn), cyclone & storm surges (French Polynesia), tsunamis (Wallis and Futuna) and water-borne epidemics and pollution (New Caledonia) . Working closely with OCT governments and local/provincial authorities, this project is to benefit communities at risk through enhanced awareness of disaster risk, improved information for hazard assessment and response, and sustainable solutions to resource access and use.
The Contribution Agreement for the OCT facility was signed between the EU and SOPAC in December 2008. SOPAC has since undertaken missions to all four OCTs and is currently finalising interventions. The project has a bilingual project manager with significant experience in disaster risk management, who will provide direct oversight of implementation. Access to SOPAC's technical / scientific resources in water resources management, oceanography, disaster risk management and others will be provided to all OCTs.
For more information, contact:
Team Leader - Disaster Risk Reduction in Pacific overseas countries/territories
