Week 7 Assignment & Portal

How can international emergency management and disaster diplomacy be effectively utilized in the current international system?

Disasters give a new perspective on the understanding of change and the way that things transit. Considering the current state of the media and its global coverage, a disaster can be brought into the attention of the world in a matter of few minutes (Comfort, 2000). The coverage gives a fair amount of understanding of the nature of the disaster and its impact on the community it has been inflicted on. The global perspective on the disaster gives an opportunity to the countries around the world to share the risk that arises from these disasters.

A disaster can help two countries build diplomatic ties, with the affected state being provided assistance from the donor one. On 26 December 2004, the tsunami caused havoc on the countries that were around the regions with loss of property and life. The disaster could have been an opportunity for many countries to improve their relations. India was affected by the disaster, but did not request for any help in the international community, although it could have been a great opportunity to improve their relations with the USA in the military sphere.

International donor agencies such as the Red Cross are there for the purpose of aiding the countries that are faced with disasters. Each disaster helps developing an understanding of the nature and magnitude of the damage that can be caused. Such an exercise serves as a lesson to better prepare for future calamities. When the international bodies are better equipped with resources to counter the disaster relief efforts, it speeds up the rehabilitation process.

What are the cost, benefits, advantages, risks and obstacles in effective collaboration in international emergency management and disaster diplomacy?

The costs in ...