“In absolute terms, lower-middle income countries suffered the highest number of deaths due to disasters over the past 18 years.”

“In low income countries, an average of 130 people died per million compared with just 18 in high income countries.”

“That means people exposed to disasters in the poorest nations were more than seven times more likely to die than people in the richest nations.”

"Disasters have a steep human cost. Millions of people are displaced every year, losing their homes and jobs because of extreme weather events and earthquakes."

"Reducing the economic losses from disasters has the power to transform lives and contribute greatly to the eradication of poverty. As we mark the International Day for Disaster Reduction, let us reaffirm our commitment to this vital endeavour."

About the International Day for Disaster Reduction