This module introduces a paradigm for understanding the disaster/ development interface. Specifically, the module asserts that disasters and development are linked closely in that disasters can both destroy development initiatives and create development opportunities, and that development schemes can both increase and decrease vulnerability. The module consists of four parts:

Part One introduces these concepts and discusses how disasters can vary from one type of hazard to another, as well as from one type of economic condition to another.

Part Two develops the paradigm in depth, and provides case examples to amplify the points made in the text.

Part Three describes and discusses different methods and tools for analyzing decisions for potential investment of resources, and should enhance the reader's capacity to analyze the mitigational benefits of development alternatives in both the pre- and post-disaster context.

Part Four conceptualizes the role of UN agencies, NGOs, and the affected communities in promoting development based on the concepts discussed in the module.

This training module, Disasters and Development, initially was designed to introduce this aspect of disaster management to an audience of UN organization professionals who form disaster management teams, as well as to government counterpart agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and donors. The educational process has been designed to increase the audience's awareness of the nature and management of disasters, in order to lead to better performance in disaster preparedness and response.

The content has been written by experts in the field of disaster management and in general follows the UNDP/UNDRO Disaster Management Manual and its principles, procedures, and terminology.