Over the last ten years natural disasters have affected more than 2.4 billion people — the equivalent of one-third of the earth`s population — and they have cost over USD 910 billion in damages. 
Legislation is an important tool to address the threats posed by natural disasters. Laws can help ensure that the international response to a disaster is efficient and well-coordinated. And laws can empower communities and civil society organization to contribute effectively to these aims.
Experience shows that well-crafted laws can focus and strengthen efforts to prevent and respond to natural disasters. We have seen important advances in building legal preparedness for disasters over the past decade — but much more remains to be done. 
The IFRC and national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the globe are key partners in this work.