Actors in Early Warning Systems

1. Communities

Particularly those most vulnerable, are fundamental to people-centred early warning systems.

They should be actively involved in all aspects of the establishment and operation of early warning systems, be aware of the hazards and potential impacts to which they are exposed, and be able to take actions to minimize the threat of loss or damage.

2. Local governments

Like communities and individuals, local governments are at the centre of effective early warning systems.

 They should be empowered by national/central governments, have considerable knowledge of the hazards to which their communities are exposed and be actively involved in the design and maintenance of early warning systems.

They must understand advisory information received and be able to advise, instruct, and engage the local population in a manner that increases public safety and reduces the possible loss of resources on which the community depends.

3. National governments

 The central governments are responsible for high-level policies and frameworks that facilitate early warning and for the technical systems that predict and issue national hazard warnings.

National governments should interact with regional and international governments and agencies to strengthen early warning capacities and ensure that warnings and related responses are directed towards the most vulnerable populations.

The provision of support to local communities and governments to develop operational capabilities is also an essential function.

4. Regional institutions and organizations

Play a role in providing specialized knowledge and advice which support national efforts to develop and sustain early warning capabilitiesin countries that share a common geographical environment.

In addition, they encourage linkages with international organizations and facilitate effective early warning practices among adjacent countries.

5. International bodies

 Can provide international coordination, standardization, and support for national early warning activities and foster the exchange of data and knowledge between individual countries and regions.

Support may include the provision of advisory information, technical assistance, and policy and organizational support necessary to aid the development and operational capabilities of national authorities or agencies.

6. Non-governmental organisations

Play a role in raising awareness among individuals, communities and organizations involved in early warnings, particularly at the community level.

They can assist with implementing early warning systems and in preparing communities for natural disasters.

Also, they can play an important advocacy role to help ensure that early warnings stay on the agenda of government policy makers.

7. The private sector

Has a diverse role to play in early warning, including developing early warning capabilities in their own organizations.

 The media plays a vital role in improving the disaster consciousness of the general population and disseminating early warnings.

The private sector also has a large untapped potential to help provide skilled services in form of technical manpower, know-how or donations (in-kind and cash) of goods or services.

8. The science and academic community

 Has a critical role in providing specialized scientific and technical input to assist governments and communities in developing early warning systems.

Their expertise is central to analysing natural hazard risks facing communities, supporting the design of scientific and systematic monitoring and warning services, supporting data exchange, translating scientific or technical information into comprehensible messages, and to the dissemination of understandable warnings to those at risk.

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