Glossary Term
Public awareness
The extent of common knowledge about a conflict, disaster, or risk, the factors that lead to disasters and the actions that can be taken individually and collectively to reduce exposure and vulnerability to hazards. Public awareness is a key factor in effective disaster and conflict risk reduction. Its development is pursued, for example, through the development and dissemination of information through media and educational channels, the establishment of information centers, networks, and community or participation actions, and advocacy by senior public officials and community leaders.