2.1. Overview of Build Back Better and its Themes

So, this has been published by Duryog Nivaran secretariat and this is about the build back better concept as a theme and how it has been implemented in different disaster context in the South Asian region.

The Build Back Better (BBB) concept was developed to address the recovery efforts following disasters. It emphasizes not just rebuilding infrastructure but doing so in a way that enhances resilience against future disasters. This report draws lessons from various case studies across South Asia, aiming to showcase how different countries approach recovery and what can be learned from their experiences.

Imagine a family that lost their home in a fire. Instead of merely rebuilding it the same way it was, they decide to use fire-resistant materials and install safety features to prevent future fires. This approach reflects the essence of BBB—improving the previous state to avoid repeating mistakes.

If you look at it from 2007 to 2015, almost like how about 7 to 8 years, we can see a variety of disasters hitting the South Asian context.

Over a period of about eight years, the South Asian region experienced numerous disasters, including earthquakes and cyclones. Each of these incidents provided unique challenges and learning opportunities on how to implement BBB strategies effectively. Understanding this history is crucial for recognizing the importance of BBB in improving future disaster responses.

Consider a community that faced several floods over the years. Each flood taught them something new about what structures held up best or what areas were most vulnerable. By learning from past experiences, they can improve their defenses against future floods, much like how BBB works.

1. Back to building better; it refers to the baseline conditions that is a regular building practice... 2. Better building back; so this talks about a sense of urgency to build back... 3. Build back better; it is not just in the physical sense,...

The BBB concept consists of three critical ideas: 1) 'Back to building better' emphasizes returning to improved baseline practices; 2) 'Better building back' stresses the urgency of recovery to not compromise community resilience; and 3) 'Build back better' expands the focus beyond just physical structures, incorporating social, economic, and environmental dimensions to enhance community resilience effectively.

Think of a gym that had to rebuild after a flood. They don’t just replace machines (physical structures), but they also improve their locker room facilities (social aspects) and offer new classes (economic opportunities). By upgrading all aspects, they create a community-centered, resilient gym.

It emerged not only as a theme but also as a framework during the multinational recovery effect... we have to use a holistic approach towards reconstruction recovery...

BBB emerged as an essential framework following the 2004 Tsunami, aiming for a comprehensive approach to recovery. This means not only rebuilding physical structures but also addressing social fabric, economic revitalization, and the preservation of ecological integrity to create a more resilient community that can withstand future disasters.

Consider a city devastated by a hurricane. A holistic approach to rebuilding would involve not just fixing homes but also creating job opportunities, securing health services, and restoring local ecosystems, much like planting trees for stronger barriers against future storms.

In Sendai Framework of action... there have been 16 prerequisites, which has been listed under the 6 themes...

The Sendai Framework outlines essential guidelines for enhancing resilience through disaster risk reduction, focusing on six main themes including government accountability, economic resilience, and ecological conservation. Each theme comprises specific actions aimed at addressing vulnerabilities and promoting recovery principles captured in BBB.

Think of the Sendai Framework like a recipe for a cake. Each ingredient (theme) is essential for creating a delicious cake (resilience), and missing one could lead your cake (community) to not rise properly.

Number one is government... then, the second one we talk about the economy...

A successful BBB implementation relies heavily on governance and economic resilience. Striving for robust legal frameworks, regulatory mechanisms, and innovative financial strategies such as public-private partnerships are vital for ensuring a coordinated effort in disaster recovery. This ensures that reconstruction is conducted in a sustainable and equitable manner.

Imagine a sports team where the coach (government) must develop a strong game plan (laws and regulations) while securing sponsorships (economic strategies) to allow the team to practice and improve its performance after a tough season (disaster recovery).

This report the South Asian Disaster Report, what does it aim?...

The report aims to critically analyze how effectively the Build Back Better approach can be operationalized in South Asia by assessing existing institutional capacities, resources, and the overall context. It emphasizes the need for collective efforts among nations to ensure that the principles of BBB resonate through effective policy and implementation strategies.

Think of a community garden where each member (country) contributes resources, plants, and effort toward cultivating a thriving space. Similarly, nations must collaborate and bring their resources to the table to effectively implement BBB and support each other’s recovery efforts.

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