In the Shadow of the Storm

Getting recovery right one year after typhoon Haiyan

Publication date: 6 November 2014
Author: Alison Kent, Oxfam Humanitarian Policy Advisor

The scale of the destruction caused when typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines on 8 November 2013 was staggering. The emergency response provided life-saving support to millions of people in the affected region. But the challenge now is to ensure that recovery efforts leave devastated communities better able to pursue diverse livelihoods, access safe shelter and withstand future shocks. 

A recovery agenda is needed that focuses on poverty reduction and is based on the strengthened capacity of local authorities and communities. This will be critical for building a better future for Haiyan’s survivors living in the shadow of the storm.