That the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction has brought about qualitative improvements in the region by increasing awareness of the importance of reducing vulnerability and mitigating the effects of natural disasters, although a significant degree in the reduction of such impacts has not yet been accomplished. The regional cooperation agreements on natural disasters and the resolutions adopted by the Latin American and Caribbean countries in their regional and sub-regional instances, as well as the Summit of the Americas Plan of Action. That disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness must have a multi-risk character, including both natural and technological hazards.
Human behavior affects the environment which increases the potential negative impact of disasters.
In order to achieve sustainable human development, it is critical to adopt policies and strategies aimed at reducing vulnerability, as an integral part of development planning. National institutions responsible for prevention and mitigation, as well as those in charge of preparedness and emergency management present varying levels of progress and efficiency in different countries. They need further strengthening modernization and adaptation to the profile of existing risks. It is critical that civil society be involved effectively in this process. The institutional efforts in the domain of disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness as well as emergency management have not matched the actual needs.