Laws

Throughout the world, various governments have passed laws to create, regulate, or otherwise define their disaster relief, preparedness, or mitigation policies. Specifics vary and change according to the sort of disasters typically faced; the early 21st century has seen more American law dealing with terrorism response, while the laws of the early 20th century were concerned mainly with floods, as well as the resources and perceived responsibilities of the government. Developed countries are more likely to regulate industry as part of mitigation, for instance; while developing, industrialized countries are more likely to adopt a laissez-faire approach to industry—sometimes at the behest of developed countries or international bodies of which they are members, in the interest of helping to propel developing countries along their path with ...