Climate Change-Induced Emergencies and Inequity: the Role of Emergency Management Governance in Canada

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of emergencies such as floods and fires, worldwide. These events disproportionally affect equity deserving groups and are becoming a growing driver of social inequity. Emergency management (EM) governance shapes how these groups experience emergencies and their aftermath. In this perspective paper, we examine the relationship between social inequity and EM governance in Canada with the objective of outlining how the devolution of EM governance can impact local resilience and social equity. We show how the devolution of EM responsibilities has created a system where local governments have little decision-making authority despite being responsible for implementing EM policy and programs. We argue that providing reliable funding and greater local autonomy can improve EM outcomes for equity deserving groups and strengthen community resilience overall. Findings and recommendations are intended to help decision makers navigate complexities associated with devolution and the design of EM governance structures.