National Disaster Management Law, 2013 (Myanmar)
The National Disaster Management Law is geared towards the following objectives:
- To implement natural disaster management programmes systematically and expeditiously in order to reduce disaster risks.
- To form the National Committee and Local Bodies in order to implement natural disaster management programmes systematically and expeditiously.
- To coordinate with national and international government departments and organizations, social organizations, other non-government organizations or international organizations and regional organizations in carrying out natural disaster management activities.
- To conserve and restore the environment affected by natural disasters.
- To provide health, education, social and livelihood programmes in order to bring about better living conditions for victims.
The Law establishes the National Natural Disaster Management Committee, which duties and powers include:
- Laying down the policies for natural disaster management; forming various disaster management work committees.
- Allocating responsibilities among the committees at the regional or state level.
- Submitting a report to the President to declare disaster affected areas.
- Coordinating local authorities and organizations for timely evacuations.
- Screening, cooperating and supervising international organizations or foreign countries aiding disaster management efforts, among others.
The Law also empowers the President to declare an area as a natural disaster-affected area if it is known that there has been a severe natural disaster which causes extensive loss of life and property, and damage to the environment and it is believed that there may be difficulties in the rapid restoration of normality. The Law further identifies preparatory and preventive measures, emergency responses including search and rescue, and rehabilitation and reconstruction activities. It likewise establishes the Natural Disaster Management Fund, and certain offenses and penalties.