ICTs, Climate Change and Natural Disaster Management in Bangladesh

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters which are adversely impacting developing countries like Bangladesh - increasing economic, socio-cultural, informational, psychological and physiological vulnerabilities. Disaster management is one effective option to reduce the vulnerability to ensure their continued wellbeing. This research attempts to understand how the power of ICTs can benefit disaster management and then to investigate what should be the key components in designing a sustainable disaster management system. The research finds that although ICTs are a key tool for natural disaster management, they need to be implemented through a proper management system, involving local communities in order to be effective. The research identified three components of sustainable natural disaster management systems - ICTs, community and management. The findings of this research suggest that proper attention must be paid to the assessment of information and communication needs. Political support at all levels is also a critical success factor for the operation of a sustainable disaster management system in countries like Bangladesh.