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Count on the survivors


28 October 2004

Survivors of disasters prove more resilient than aid agencies expect, according to the World Disasters Report 2004 released on 28 October by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.


Red Crescent rescuers search for survivors after the earthquake in Bam 2003

One example of how effective communities can be when faced with a disaster is the response to the earthquake in Bam, Iran, in December 2003. Whereas 34 international rescue teams found 22 people alive, local Red Crescent volunteers saved nearly 160 lives. Neighbours and volunteers from other provinces and local organisations saved hundreds more.

The report underlines that the time has come to dispel the myth of helpless victims. After decades of rhetoric, it is now time for action: aid organisations must build on the resources and resilience found in disaster-prone communities or risk undermining those capacities further.

To order a copy of the report, go to www.eurospanonline.com
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