The Critical Role of Operational DEI and Knowledge Management in Disaster Management - A Unified Approach

Two weeks ago, at the ASEAN Strategic Policy Dialogue on Disaster Management (SPDDM) 2024 at the Marriott Tangs, I had the opportunity to listen to ASEAN’s stance on inclusivity in disaster management. The theme of this dialogue, “It Takes a Village: Inclusive Approaches to Enhance Disaster Resilience,” underscores a fundamental truth: everyone has a role to play in disaster management. This inclusive approach is not just a guiding principle but a critical factor for the success of any disaster management strategy.

At Acies Innovations , we've coined the term Operational DEI to emphasise the importance of embedding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles directly into the core of daily operations, particularly within the realms of disaster management and knowledge management (KM).

Operational DEI - A Strategic Necessity

Operational DEI is more than just a set of values; it's a strategic framework that ensures DEI principles are woven into every decision, process, and strategy within an organisation. This approach is crucial in disaster management, where diverse perspectives lead to more comprehensive and effective strategies. Here is my sharings.

• As Kate Stone aptly states in a Diversio Article

"DEI operations manage the application and integration of DEI principles into the core of daily business processes to make DEI not just a rhetoric but a practical reality that happens at every level of an organization."

This perspective aligns perfectly with the Operational DEI framework we advocate at Acies, which is designed to transform DEI from a theoretical concept into actionable practices that enhance both disaster management and organisational culture.

Linking DEI to Knowledge Management and Disaster Management

• Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, highlighted in his opening speech at the ASEAN SPDDM 2024 on the findings of the Report of the Mid-Term Review of the Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)

"The report acknowledges substantial gaps, such as the need to enhance risk information to the local level and integrate local or indigenous knowledge in early warning systems. These findings resonate with ASEAN’s quest for innovative strategies and community-based initiatives that are rooted in people-centred and people-oriented principles."

Dr. Kao's emphasis on inclusivity and local knowledge integration underscores the vital role that Operational DEI plays in disaster management. By ensuring that diverse voices are included in decision-making and that local knowledge is integrated into early warning systems, organisations can develop more effective and culturally sensitive disaster management strategies.

• Mrs Josephine Teo , Minister for Digital Development and Information, further supports this approach by emphasising the role of social connections in team performance and inclusivity. She noted:

"Inclusion is a relative construct—how teams function and perform are based on the quality of social connections."

Josephine’s perspective aligns with Operational DEI’s focus on fostering a knowledge-sharing culture through structured onboarding, continuous training, and the establishment of communities of practice (CoPs). Her emphasis on social connections highlights the necessity of creating supportive and inclusive operational environments, which are essential for the success of disaster management strategies.

The Role of Knowledge Management in Operational DEI

By combining Operational DEI with robust KM systems, organisations can create a more inclusive and effective disaster management framework. Knowledge Management facilitates the collection, sharing, and utilisation of information from diverse sources, ensuring that decision-making is informed by a wide range of perspectives. This is particularly important in disaster management, where timely and accurate information can save live

This was echoed during the Thematic Session 1, facilitated by Adelina Kamal where she and her co-speakers ASEC Bernado Rafaelito Alejandro, Debora Dian Utami Nugraheni and Dr. Hjh Iffah Farhana shared their personal experiences and perspective on incorporating inclusivity in resilience approach by exploring the needs of vulnerable groups that may have been overlooked. Discussing the benefits of inclusive strategies and collaborative approaches in enhancing the effectiveness of resilience-building initiatives,that promote inclusive approaches in community resilience building, particularly the voices of the youth, women, and people with disabilities, among others. the session was one of the best for me with so much knowledge being shared.

Operationalising DEI in Disaster Management

In article titled "Understanding Operational DEI - A Strategic Approach to Embedding Inclusivity in Organisational Processes" Acies Innovations shares that operational DEI ensures that decision-making bodies are diverse, leading to more innovative and adaptive problem-solving. By engaging external stakeholders, organisations can tailor strategies to meet the needs of diverse communities, promoting inclusive solutions. A diverse workforce is better equipped to build trust and address community needs, ensuring equitable access to resources, which is crucial in disaster management. Operational DEI also promotes fairness by addressing systemic inequities and enhancing cultural sensitivity, improving communication and cooperation both within the organisation and with the communities it serves. Cultural sensitivity is particularly vital in disaster management, where understanding local dynamics can significantly impact the success of relief efforts.

The ASEAN Context: Aligning with Vision 2045

Operational DEI and KM are not just organisational best practices; they are aligned with ASEAN’s broader strategic goals. As ASEAN moves toward its Community Vision 2045, the integration of DEI and KM into disaster management frameworks becomes increasingly critical. i so like the term used in the "community of opportunities" as it truely defines why DEI needs attention now. These principles are essential for building a resilient and inclusive ASEAN community capable of effectively responding to diverse challenges.

ASEAN communities and events like SPDDM must capture and continue to share success stories from the ground and communities which illustrate the real-world impact of DEI initiatives and inspire further action as well as address diversity challenges and promote equity.

Conclusion: The Continuous Journey of DEI Operations

Operational DEI and Knowledge Management are not endpoints but ongoing processes that require continuous commitment, flexibility, and strategic action. By embedding these principles into the core operations of disaster management organisations, we can create a more inclusive, resilient, and effective response to disasters. to quote the Lao saying that summed up the 2nd sep 23, article on ASEAN Community vision an2045 “one piece of wood will not make a fire” (?????????? ???????????). Strong partnership and cooperation will be needed to ensure that our Post-2025 future can bring tangible impact to the countries and peoples of ASEAN and the theme of the SPPDM 2024, “It Takes a Village: Inclusive Approaches to Enhance Disaster Resilience”

The team at Acies is committed to leading the charge in this transformative journey, ensuring that DEI and KM are not just ideals but integral components of disaster management excellence.

Dr. Reetha Raveendran Dr. Randhir Pushpa Adelina Kamal Dr. Hjh Iffah Farhana Rusnita Saleh Thandie Mwape Villadsen Gerardy Grananda Abdul Aleem Siddiq Abdul Hadi