Mitigating the impact of natural hazards on civil registration and vital statistics systems : the case of Vanuatu

This paper draws on Vanuatu’s experiences to discuss the importance of civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) systems, and the challenges faced during disasters and emergencies. Civil registration documents enable people to access key social and public services and support basic human rights. Legal identity records can become crucial during a disaster scenario. The report observes trends in the data that can be extrapolated from, to include other times and places where climate change, war, economic, health and national catastrophes strike. Emergency follow-up support to families often relies on CRVS documentation. Vanuata is a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, part of a chain of islands located 500 miles west of Fiji.Global Affairs Canada (GAC