NAMUNC IV

SOCHUM Background Guide: Disaster Relief

Disaster relief is a top priority of the United Nations.  Over the years, we have seen many disasters both natural and manmade.  The tsunami of 2004 ravaged the countries along the Indian Ocean and left a wake of destruction affecting the entire world.  Many countries came together to support and provide aid for those suffering.  The United Nations was a crucial leader in organizing relief.  The UN also worked with a coalition of agencies to provide further, individualized care.  We must overcome our differences and continue to find new and effective ways to provide disaster relief. 

The basic guidelines to follow for providing any kind of disaster relief are outlined on the following web site: http://ochaonline.un.org/webpage.asp?Nav=_coordination_en&Site=co ordination&Lang=en.  It must be kept in mind that there are many different aspects of disaster relief, not only money.  Money is, however, an important part of it.  The funding is what allows different things to be done.  Different methods of raising donations as well as how to organize, collect, and allocate the money should be considered.  Part of disaster relief is stabilizing the situation and preventing as much damage as possible.  Depending on the degree of destruction, things may have to be rebuilt and reorganized. Food supplies may also have to be distributed.  Teams may also be needed to be sent into the disaster area to assess the situation. 

All of these things need to be considered.  While preventing a disaster from even occurring is ideal, realistically some disasters cannot be stopped or even predicted.  As the United Nations, we must work together and come up with a fast, efficient way to help those in need. It is our responsibility to provide disaster relief.  By improving the lives of our fellow human beings, we can create a happier, healthier world. 

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