Local humanitarian workers need greater recognition for the role they play in disaster response, according to the Red Cross.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) World Disaster Report says despite the critical role of people and groups in catastrophe-hit areas, they struggle to attract the necessary funding and support.

“Local actors are always the first to respond,” IFRC Secretary-General Elhadj As Sy said.

The report says 315 natural disasters occurred last year – the lowest number for a decade and 17% below the average – affecting 107 million people and causing nearly 8000 deaths.

Almost half of all disasters and more than 85% of deaths took place in Asia, with China the worst-affected country.

Floods and landslides accounted for 49% of all natural disasters last year.

Total economic losses were estimated at $US99.2 billion ($141.41 billion), well below the 10-year average of $US147 billion ($209.55 billion).