IDDRR
The Sphere Network – Bolivia
Youth leaders spearhead disaster risk reduction efforts in Bolivia, empowering communities to build resilience against future hazards.
ORGANISATION
The Sphere Network
LOCATION
Bolivia
In the Gran Chaco region of Villa Montes, Tarija, Bolivia, communities are increasingly vulnerable to droughts, floods, forest fires, and frost. These hazards disproportionately affect women, children, adolescents, people with disabilities, and the elderly, while also threatening essential agricultural, fishing, beekeeping, industrial, and environmental activities.
To address these challenges, the initiative “Prepared by Listening to Everyone’s Voices” was launched, focusing on strengthening local disaster risk reduction capacities. Central to this initiative was the active involvement of youth in the Tarairi and Ibibobo communities. By applying national risk management laws and Sphere Standards for Humanitarian Response, the project prioritised inclusive, community-led approaches to building resilience.
Workshops on disaster risk management were pivotal in engaging 64 local leaders, the majority of whom were young people. These youth-led efforts included the creation of risk and resource maps, the organisation and training of community and school emergency brigades, and the development of contingency plans, supported by practical drills. By equipping young leaders with these skills, the initiative empowered the next generation to take proactive roles in safeguarding their communities against future disasters.
Guided by 23 professionals trained in Sphere Standards, and supported by the Regional Autonomous Government of Gran Chaco Villa Montes (GARGChVM) and local environmental organisations, the youth were at the forefront of these disaster preparedness actions.
The initiative was funded by the Opportunities Fund of the Bolivian Platform Against Climate Change and Community in Action, with backing from AVINA, VAC, WWF, GARGChVM, and PAAC/LIDEMA.
From awareness to action, young people lead the way in pushing for climate and disaster resilience. This story and photograph is a part of our celebration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2024. Members from across our network have shared their stories of youth-led or focussed resilience work. It demonstrates that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers today, driving forward local actions that build resilience to disasters and reduce risk.
All photos: The Sphere Network – Bolivia