ORG Runs Community Consultations on Abaco
ORG recently visited Abaco to engaged with members of the community around the work of the organization to build cross sector collaboration. While the team engaged with several government agencies and NGOs; the primary objective of the visit was to run a community focus group for local civil society organizations to discuss the impacts of debt Injustice on small island nations like The Bahamas.
Funded by Caribbean Policy Development Centre, the consultations on Abaco sought to explore the critical issue of national debt and its profound implications for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation within our community and nation. We understand the challenges posed by high national debt and are committed to fostering understanding and education among various stakeholders, reflecting ORG’s commitment to strengthening societal resilience and preparedness.
The high national debt has far-reaching consequences, significantly impacting disaster preparedness and climate resilience. Recognizing this, ORG invited stakeholders from civil society organizations, business associations, faith-based organizations, and the broader community to engage in this important discourse.
The consultation served as a dynamic platform for stakeholders to deepen their understanding of national debt issues, share experiences, and explore collaborative strategies across sectors. Their contributions were invaluable in examining how debt levels affect disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts, which is crucial for a nation frequently exposed to natural hazards.
Participants also delved into current regional initiatives, such as the Bridgetown Agreement, providing a broader context for the discussion. The consultation aimed to achieve several primary objectives:
- Enhanced Understanding: This paper provides insights into the effects of high national debt on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.
- Facilitated Dialogue: Encouraging conversations among diverse stakeholders about the impact of national debt on our community and nation.
- Regional Contribution: Contributing to a regional position paper that reflects the local context of debt justice and offers initial recommendations.
The consultation marked a significant step towards building a resilient and well-prepared society, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration and informed decision-making.