Disaster risk reduction and the state: The failure of no-build zones after Typhoon Haiyan

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015 2030 (Sendai Framework) identifies build back better measures, such as land use planning, as priority actions for disaster recovery. The aim is to use opportunities during the recovery phase to reduce disaster risk in the medium and long term. The Sendai Framework further supports land use actions prior to disasters, including mainstreaming disaster risk assessments into land use policy; developing guidance for disaster preparedness such as on land- use planning; and formulating public policies on relocation, where possible, of human settlements in disaster risk zones. Taken together, these references form part of emerging international legal principles on relocation of people from hazardous areas as a potential disaster risk reduction measure.