Case Study Title; Listen to Us!
Case Study Theme “Use of local culture and traditional knowledge to raise awareness”.
Effective early warning dissemination and household preparedness has been shown to significantly reduce
the impact of cyclones. In Bangladesh millions of people living in coastal areas evacuate to cyclone
shelters after receive early warning messages, however, these message are not always received or
understood, especially the most vulnerable community members.
Children of Naltona Union under Barguna Sadar Upazila in the coastal belt of Bangledesh are
demonstrating that they are excellent risk communicators and increasing awareness levels of children and
adults on early warning and household preparedness. Through a child centered approach, children identify
and analyze disaster risks, validate there findings with the wider community and develop an action plan
with adults to reduce their disaster risks. In an adult dominated society where child rights is usually
overlooked, children of Naltona Union are being recognized by adults and local government in working
towards developing disaster resilient communities.
Children Organization (CO) and Community Based Organization (CBO) adult counterparts)) members
identified lack of awareness on early warning and poor household preparedness as major reasons for their
vulnerability to cyclones. By identifying potential resources in their communities to address the risks
identified, CO members approached the Cyclone Preparedness Program (CCP) volunteer in their
respective communities and requested him/her to capacitate them on Early Warning and household
preparedness. A strong relationship was developed between the CCP volunteers and the children, who
provided them with training on early warning and its dissemination. With this gained knowledge CO
members and flip chart developed by International Federation for Red Cross (IFRC) CO and CBO
members together conducted court yard sessions, door to door visits, meeting with fishermen and drama.
As a result of children demonstrating potential as change agents within their communities, transformation
of adults attitudes towards childrens participation is being seen. “Our children are making us aware on
early warning so that we know what needs to be done in disastrous situation” commented Mr Malek of
Garjonbunia village. Local government is also recognizing their potential “I am happy to see the
potentiality of adolescent boy & girl in the way they are making community aware. We have to encourage
them so that they will be able to contribute our development” Abdul Khaleque, Upazila Chairman,
Barguna Sadar, Barguna
Children are still a long way away from realizing their rights in Bangladesh, where even basic education
and health are often not realized. However, as this case study highlights, by reducing disaster risks
through a child centered approach can significantly contribute towards achieving their rights.
Disclaimer
This document has been produced with the financial aid of the European Commission. The views
expressed herein should not be taken in any way to reflect the official opinion of the European
Commission