This is at least a start. But by themselves, these measures will not give the people of this disaster-prone region the security they need and deserve. The affected countries now have the daunting job of organizing national systems for disaster management both to guide the current reconstruction and to prepare for future emergencies. These systems must include the participation of public and private agencies and civil society organizations. Their chief objective must be to earmark resources for mitigation investments on a permanent basis.
Governments can no longer deal with disasters only after they happen.
Experience is good when you don t pay too dearly for it, according to the old adage. Venezuela and Central America clearly have paid dearly, making it all the more imperative that these lessons be turned into concrete action. The author is an IDB disaster mitigation and urban development specialist.