Author: Aliya Hamida
Co-Author: Brigita Shinta Dea Pinastika
Are our early warning systems truly inclusive, or are we leaving the most at risk behind?
Imagine receiving a life-saving warning about an impending disaster but being unable to act on it due to inaccessible formats or exclusion from disaster risk reduction interventions. For millions of persons with disabilities, this is a harsh reality. Hendry Hernowo, a person with low-vision disability and leader of the Inclusive Disability Forum in Magelang (FIDAKAMA), understands this challenge intimately. Drawing from his experiences in a region prone to volcanic eruptions and landslides, Hendry highlights the urgent need for inclusive disaster risk reduction.
At the 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), Hendry joined a panel discussion led by the GNDR in collaboration with Disability-inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction Network (DiDRRN) to address this critical issue. The session, titled “Voices from the Ground on Early Warning, Early Action: How to Achieve Gender-Responsive and Inclusive Universal Coverage?”, brought together diverse stakeholders, including representatives of youth, women, and civil society organisations, to share insights and actionable recommendations for inclusive early warning systems (EWS).
Four Principles for Inclusive Early Warning Systems
Hendry emphasised four key principles for effective and inclusive EWS, underlining the importance of designing systems that are not only accessible but also actionable for everyone.
1. Disaster Risk Knowledge
Understanding disaster risks is the foundation of preparedness. However, Hendry points out that current approaches often marginalised persons with disabilities.
“Sometimes workshops aren’t accessible—no screen readers for the persons with vision disabilities, or interpreters for the persons with hearing disabilities,” Hendry shared. He advocates for alternative methods, such as coaching and storytelling, that allow persons with disabilities to actively participate without barriers.
2. Forecasting and Monitoring
Hendry highlighted the need to move beyond tokenistic involvement.
“They don’t give me a defined role in the mechanism,” he explained, reflecting on his experience attending early warning system events as an observer rather than a contributor. To truly include persons with disabilities, they must be given meaningful roles in forecasting and monitoring activities.
3. Accessible Communication
Effective communication must cater to the diverse needs of all community members. Hendry urged the adoption of multi-format media and accessibility features already available on platforms like social media.
“Why don’t we use alternative text on Instagram posts or accessibility menus on gadgets? These simple steps can make a huge difference,” he noted. Clear, jargon-free messaging is equally essential, particularly for persons with mental health conditions, to reduce anxiety during crises.
4. Preparedness and Response
Simulations and response activities often exclude persons with disabilities, undermining their effectiveness.
“In one volcanic eruption simulation, participants without disabilities played the roles of persons with disabilities instead of involving actual persons with disabilities,” Hendry recalled. He called for their direct involvement in all phases—from the design of shelters to the evaluation of response protocols.
Integrating Local Culture for Inclusivity
FIDAKAMA in collaboration with Arbeiter Samariter Bund (ASB), member of DiDRRN, has pioneered creative approaches to fostering inclusivity in EWS by integrating local culture. In Sumber Village, where traditional sirens are not widely accepted, FIDAKAMA used Ketoprak, a form of traditional Javanese drama, to convey disaster risk reduction messages.
“We included persons with disabilities as actors and musicians in the performances,” Hendry explained. This participatory approach not only engaged the community but also broke down barriers, fostering mutual understanding.
Performances were held in accessible venues with guiding blocks, ramps, and interpreters, demonstrating how cultural approaches can resonate deeply with local communities while ensuring disability inclusiveness.
The Vital Role of OPDis
Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDis) like FIDAKAMA play a critical role in fill the gaps in disaster risk reduction.
“We can provide data, rehabilitation services, and advocacy because disasters and disabilities are interconnected,” Hendry stated. He noted that disasters often lead to increased rates of disability, making the work of OPDis even more essential in recovery and resilience-building efforts.
Hendry’s reflections at APMCDRR underscore a fundamental truth: inclusive early warning systems are not just a goal—they are a necessity. By involving persons with disabilities in every stage of disaster risk reduction, from planning to evaluation, communities can ensure no one is left behind.
As Hendry powerfully concluded, “Persons with disabilities must be part of every step. Only then can we ensure no one is left behind.”
How can we create truly inclusive early warning systems in our communities? The answer begins by listening to voices like Hendry’s and take acting on their invaluable insights.
