ABSTRACT

An expected consequence of climate change will be more frequent and severe natural hazard events such as storms, fl oods and wildfi res, while rising sea levels will increase vulnerability to storm surge and tsunami. This chapter will explore the current state of international law governing the response to disasters and the range of recurring problems and issues in managing this international response (both from governments and the non-government sector). The chapter will consider the role of international conventions and standards and other proposed solutions to facilitate rapid and appropriate responses to natural hazard events.