CommunicationPublished on 30 October 2023

«Switzerland's lasting legacy in the field of disaster risk reduction»

Hurricane Mitch caused widespread devastation across Central America in 1998. Without a functioning DRR system, Nicaragua was left completely vulnerable to the destructive forces of nature. Today, 25 years later, the country has a robust DRR system, thanks to Switzerland's long-term contribution. Christoph Graf, who coordinated the SDC's emergency relief activities as the head of the Swiss cooperation office in Managua during the disaster, returns 25 years later to share his insights.

Swiss specialist talking with the local manager of a climate monitoring station in Dipilto, Nicaragua. — © SDC

Switzerland has actively contributed to changes in policies and standards, such as building codes, in collaboration with local organisations, authorities, and universities.

Thanks to the advancements in the DRR system, a storm of the magnitude of Hurricane Mitch would not wreak the same level of havoc today.