International Day for Disaster Reduction

Ambassador Bessler
Mr. McFarlane
Ms. Aït-Mohamed Parent
Ms. Louis
Distinguished Ambassadors
Dear Colleagues
Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am very pleased to take part in this event marking the International Day for Disaster Reduction. I would like to express my appreciation to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, not only for organizing this event, but for their daily work around the world advocating for and coordinating international efforts in this field.

As we have heard from the Secretary-General and Ms. Wahlström, when it comes to natural disasters and fostering a culture of prevention, women and girls can and should take the lead in shaping their own futures. There is a broad recognition by the United Nations that women have an indispensable role to play in addressing critical issues on the global agenda. From participating in politics, to building peace, to the social and economic development of their countries, women must not only be involved, but must be leaders.

This fact is recognized by the Secretary-General in his action agenda for his second term. It is recognized in the very first designation of the International Day of the Girl Child by the General Assembly – yesterday, 11 October. It is recognized by the Security Council with their continuing focus on the role of women in global peace and security. And it is recognized today, as we focus on the need for women and girls to be at the forefront of reducing risk and managing the world’s response to natural hazards.

We are moving on all fronts to invest in women so they can reach their full potential, drive development and lead us to a better future. This is critical not only for reaching our Millennium Development Goals in 2015, but for the post-2015 development agenda. In building resilient communities and resilient people, we not only reduce our risk to disasters, but we pave the way for a sustainable future for us all.

Thank you very much.