Background: DiMaNN initiated a project to conduct field-level studies in disaster-prone areas of Nepal. The aim was to gather data and insights that could inform disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies, and to advocate for policy changes at both local and national levels. The project also included lobbying efforts to influence key stakeholders in government and civil society to implement more robust disaster management policies.

Objective: To strengthen disaster management policies through evidence-based advocacy, driven by field-level studies in vulnerable communities. The ultimate goal was to ensure that these communities receive adequate support and protection from disaster risks.

Actors:

• DiMaNN Field Researchers: Responsible for conducting the studies in disaster-prone areas.
• Local Government Officials: Engaged in discussions and interviews for local data collection.
• Community Leaders: Provided insights and feedback on existing DRR mechanisms.
• DiMaNN Advocacy Team: Presented findings to government bodies, civil society organizations, and international donors.

Activities:

1. Field-Level Studies:
   • DiMaNN dispatched a team of researchers to flood and landslide-prone areas in the Far Western and Eastern regions of Nepal.
   • The team gathered data on vulnerabilities, existing preparedness measures, and the impact of past disasters on local communities.
   • Surveys and interviews were conducted with local government officials, civil society organizations, and community members.
2. Data Analysis and Report Generation:
   • The collected data was analyzed to identify gaps in current disaster management policies.
   • A comprehensive report was developed, highlighting key findings and recommendations for improving disaster preparedness and response.
3. Advocacy and Lobbying:
   • DiMaNN’s advocacy team used the report to lobby government officials at both provincial and national levels.
   • Meetings were held with policymakers to advocate for increased funding, better disaster preparedness plans, and the integration of local knowledge into national disaster policies.
   • DiMaNN worked closely with media outlets to raise public awareness and support for their lobbying efforts.
4. Follow-up Actions:
   • DiMaNN monitored the progress of the proposed policy changes, ensuring that local government bodies followed through with their commitments.
   • Periodic feedback loops were established to track improvements in disaster management at the community level.

Outcome:

• Local governments in the studied regions adopted more comprehensive disaster preparedness plans, incorporating recommendations from the field-level studies.
• DiMaNN successfully lobbied for the allocation of additional resources to disaster-prone communities, ensuring quicker response times during emergencies.
• Advocacy efforts resulted in a new policy framework at the national level that emphasizes community-based disaster risk reduction strategies.

Impact:

• Over 50,000 people in vulnerable regions benefitted from improved disaster management systems.
• Disaster response in the targeted areas became more effective, reducing loss of life and property during the 2023 monsoon season.
• The policy changes influenced by DiMaNN’s lobbying efforts are now being replicated in other districts across Nepal, creating a more resilient disaster management framework at the national level.