Population, poverty and vulnerability: Mitigating the effects of natural disasters.

This paper analyzes the relationship between demographic dynamics and Hurricane Mitch in Central America, and extracts from this experience lessons that can help reduce vulnerability in the long run. Specifically, it centers on three aspects: How did demographic processes condition the area's vulnerability prior to Mitch? What are Mitch's consequences for population dynamics in the short and long term? What changes must be introduced in population dynamics if the effects of future natural disasters are to be mitigated?