Mayotte: How scientists support Disaster Risk Reduction policies

Ultraperipheral European departments like Mayotte are developing regions, often disproportionately exposed to natural hazards and struggling to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The eye of cyclone Chido, the most violent storm to hit Mayotte island in 90 years, engulfed the French Department on the 14th of December 2024. The extensive destruction and massive loss of life ranks this event as the largest natural disaster in France since the 1902 Mt. Pelé eruption in another Ultraperipheral Department, Martinique.

The United Nations 2015-2030 Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) promotes the adoption of people-centred approaches, such as citizen science, to engage populations in disaster risk mitigation and improve awareness and preparedness. Better involvement of vulnerable communities in risk management is critical for the success of DRR policies.

Scientists can play a pivotal role in fostering dialogue between authorities and the population, thus moving towards more inclusive and effective policies for multi-hazard risk management. Scientists provide comprehensive risk assessments and can contribute to developing inclusive management plans. They can thus contribute to improving the effectiveness of the government’s communication on action plans to reduce natural disasters and facilitate marginalised communities’ involvement in decision-making.