9 / 168
[
]9
Branko Ba
č
i
ć
, Minister of Environmental Protection,
Physical Planning and Construction of the Republic of Croatia
Natural and industrial disasters have become almost daily phenomena, unpredictable in their occurrence,
too often caused by human factors and no less frequent in developed than in developing countries. In
a world burdened with continuing climate change, the greater frequency and worse consequences of
accidents have made the issue of disaster risk reduction central to strategy development plans.
The 2009 Conclusion of the Government of the Republic of Croatia initiating the establishment of
the National Risk Reduction Platform recognized this continuous task as a priority at both national and
local levels. The Platform serves as a permanent forum for the exchange of suggestions and achievements
contributing to disaster risk reduction.
It is a pleasure to report that the institutional organization of the Platform has been backed by extensive support
and readiness of all relevant scientific and professional institutions, economic entities and state administration
bodies whose activities contribute to disaster risk reduction, thus enhancing overall safety in the Republic.
The Ministry of Environmental Protection, Physical Planning and Construction has participated in the
process from the very beginning, applying physical planning and construction regulations aiming at reducing
risks and quakeproofing buildings. In addition, valuable experience has been gained through the Ministry
inspection services participating in the 112 system with a view to providing expert assistance in emergencies
and supervising events threatening the life and health of people and animals, as well as property and the
environment. Also, integration of the European
acquis communautaire
into national environmental legislation
requiring the establishment of a system for prevention, preparedness and response to industrial accidents has
resulted in better efficiency while placing more importance on prevention. This includes continuous education
of service providers and staff in complex industrial plants, as well as participation in European Union projects
related to cross-border effects of accidents in these plants.
Development and strengthening of the economic basis of society is of the utmost importance, tailored
to specific regions and fostering local diversity for proportionate development. Aware of the fact that
vulnerability to natural risks poses a major threat to our social and economic development, we strive to
improve our general preparedness.
This Ministry will be a reliable partner in strengthening dialogue and establishing the necessary
coordination and exchange of information between different development sectors, as well as enhancing
conditions for disaster risk reduction at regional and local levels. Lessons learned so far will contribute to
further recognition of the obligation of all responsible stakeholders to continually invest in reasonable and
sustainable disaster risk reduction, primarily to reduce the loss of life and property, as well as exposure to a
wide range of natural or other types of disasters.
Branko Ba
č
i
ć
Minister of Environmental Protection, Physical Planning and Construction
Republic of Croatia
2007a