VCA Model

Question 1

What is the definition of biopolitics of disaster?

Answer 1

The ways in which power is exercised over the lives and bodies of those affected by disasters.
- Involves the regulation and management of populations in the aftermath of a disaster, including decisions around evacuation, relief efforts, and reconstruction.
- Helps identify areas where change and reform may be necessary to promote more equitable and just outcomes for all populations affected by disasters.

Question 2

What is the definition of disaster governance?

Answer 2

Refers to the formal and informal mechanisms and structures in place for managing disasters, including policies, plans, and institutions. It is a broader concept that encompasses the various actors involved in disaster response and the strategies and practices they employ.

Question 3

What is the VCA Model?

Answer 3

Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment: Key idea of CBDRR is to undertake VCA assessment. Participatory activity to undertake with community and experts to disaster risk. E,g. mapping, seasonal calendar, transect walk, FGDs, problem tree.

Question 4

What is the VCA Model used for?

Answer 4

• Educates and empowers people to understand better their reality and risks try to shift them by identifying risk reduction and adaptation actions
• Its usually a multi-stakeholder process, so it enables comparison and dialogue between community members
• Its is participatory, so results in members ‘owning’ the results and analysis
• For agencies like the Red Cross, they can help to implement measures based on results and analysis, based on community priorities

Question 5

What are the 3 factors influencing vulnerability and capacity?

Answer 5

1. Physical/material
2. Social/organizational
3. Motivational/attitudinal

Question 6

What are some additional dimensions?

Answer 6

1. Gender disaggregation: Who has access to and control over resources? What skills and expertise do women and men have?
2. Disaggregation according to other differences: Poverty vs rich, ethnic, political or language, rural or urban residence, age etc. Who is represented? Who is represented by community social structures and who is left out?
3. Change over time: VCA is a snapshot of certain moment. But could be assessed to see change over time.
4. Scale/levels: Focuses on the relations between different geographical scales