Written by Yasuhiro Kawasoe, Disaster Risk Management Specialist at the GFDRR Tokyo DRM Hub of the World Bank
When the doors opened at the Understanding Risk (UR) Forum 2024 in Himeji, Japan, attendees were greeted by an extraordinary sight: an exhibition area unlike any other, designed with the innovative touch of world-renowned Architect Shigeru Ban and Voluntary Architects’ Network (VAN). The space, constructed using Ban’s iconic paper partition system (PPS), stood as a testament to the forum’s theme of “Tradition, Resilience, Innovation” – perfectly embodying each element through its innovative use of paper, a material deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.
As 1,720 participants from 135 countries gathered, the buzz of excitement was palpable. The exhibition area, housing 42 booths showcasing cutting-edge disaster risk management technologies, was more than just a display space. It was a living example of Ban’s philosophy: sustainable, adaptable, and profoundly human-centered design.
“We wanted participants to experience firsthand the innovative potential of simple materials in disaster response,” explained Mr. Harano Yasunori, Executive Director of the Voluntary Architects’ Network (VAN) who supported the exhibition area’s design. He remarked “This is the largest use of the Paper Partition System outside of actual evacuation centers. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of privacy and preparedness in disaster situations.“
Before PPS installation in the main gymnasium of Iwate Prefectural Ōtsuchi High School
After PPS installation in the main gymnasium of Iwate Prefectural Ōtsuchi High School
The paper partition system (PPS), which is stored by Hyogo Prefecture for the use of future emergency, were reimagined for the forum. Cardboard walls replaced fabric, allowing exhibitors to display posters. The hexagon design of the PPS booth was firstly introduced in this forum. A maze-like layout in the Japan Pavilion area encouraged serendipitous encounters, fostering knowledge exchange. Even the structure itself was adapted, with 10cm feet added to the pillars to accommodate international visitors.
Booth of Shigeru Ban Architects and VAN at UR2024
Japan Pavilion (right side) and PPS booths designed by Shigeru Ban Architects and VAN
But the true highlight came during the opening ceremony, as Shigeru Ban took the stage for his keynote address. His words resonated through the paper-tube exhibition space, a fitting backdrop to his message of innovation and compassion in disaster response.
“I started using recycled paper tubes for structures in 1985, before people were even talking about sustainability,” Ban shared. He went on to describe his journey from designing environment-friendly exhibition to supporting disaster affected population through innovative shelters and community facilities like churches, detailing projects that have made a tangible difference in communities worldwide.
Ban’s speech touched on key themes that resonated deeply with the audience. He emphasized the importance of using locally available materials, involving communities in construction, and addressing privacy concerns in evacuation facilities. His projects, from temporary housing in Kobe after the 1995 earthquake to recent efforts in Ukraine, demonstrated how sustainable, temporary structures can have lasting impacts.
As Ban concluded his speech, he shared a recent project in Japan’s Noto Peninsula, where his team is building studios for displaced lacquer and pottery artisans using the same paper tube structures proven resilient in earthquakes. “We’re not just providing shelter,” Ban explained, “we’re preserving livelihoods and cultural values.“
Reflecting on Shigeru Ban’s impactful keynote speech, Henry Yap, the Undersecretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DSHUD) from the Philippines highlighted the significance of Ban’s approach in supporting disaster-affected communities. He emphasized the critical role of integrating local knowledge with global innovations, as demonstrated by Ban’s use of readily available materials such as recycled papers and soft drink cases in the Philippines. This method allows for effective, immediate solutions while waiting for permanent structures. The Undersecretary noted that Ban’s strategies extend beyond individual households to address broader community needs, including churches and community facilities. He stressed that recovery should be a collective effort, with community support reinforcing individual resilience for faster, more effective recovery. The Undersecretary also advocated for the capacity building of local architects and practitioners to collaborate with local governments, leveraging Ban’s innovative techniques to enhance disaster preparedness and response.
As the forum concluded, participants left with more than just new knowledge. They carried with them the inspiration of Shigeru Ban’s vision – a reminder that in the face of disasters, human ingenuity, compassion, and the clever use of resources can build not just shelters, but hope.
The World Bank Tokyo Disaster Risk Management Hub is working to share disaster risk management knowledge developed in Japan and globally, represented by figures such as Shigeru Ban and organizations like VAN, with countries supported by the World Bank. This effort aims to contribute to strengthening disaster resilience in these countries.
A joint reflection note by the World Bank’s Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Program (DRFIP), Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), Tokyo Disaster Risk Management Hub, and Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility (SEADRIF) on driving innovation in disaster risk solutions for a more secure future.
The Challenge
As natural disasters continue to escalate, governments and businesses around the world must brace themselves for their financial and economic impacts. Extreme natural disasters cost an average of $452 billion annually in economic losses. Governments are investing roughly $1 trillion annually into infrastructure, yet disaster-related impact to infrastructures presents a significant part of governments’ contingent liabilities.
Effective disaster risk financing and insurance (DRFI) is a critical tool in mitigating financial losses from the impacts of climate change and natural hazards. It encourages risk-based decision-making and the adoption of financial protection instruments, and builds more resilient systems for response and recovery.
The Understanding Risk Global Forum 2024 (UR24)—organized by the GFDRR Tokyo Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Hub—has been the largest Understanding Risk Global Forum to date, with more than 1,700 attendees joining onsite in Himeji, Japan in June 2024. At UR24, leading experts discussed the latest in DRFI, focusing on innovations and strategies to advance global efforts in disaster and climate resilience. Here are some key insights on the frontiers of DRFI from the event, which can help global leaders and practitioners further advance their efforts.
1. Comprehensive financial protection strategies are needed to help countries close the protection gap and strengthen holistic resilience including in the infrastructure sector.
At the “Global Knowledge Exchange on DRFI for Resilient Infrastructure” session hosted by the WBG, in partnership with Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)+3 and Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility (SEADRIF), experts shared the latest approaches in integrating disaster risk considerations into asset management frameworks, especially for lifeline critical infrastructure, such as school buildings, health facilities, transport networks, and power systems.
In Grenada, the disaster resilience strategy has evolved since the devastating impact of Hurricane Ivan in 2004. The country now has multiple layers of financial protection, including a contingency fund, a WBG facility, and insurance with the Caribbean Catastrophic Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF).
Morocco’s national strategy, which includes a solidarity fund supported by insurance premiums and a risk transfer strategy for major disasters like earthquakes, has been effective in providing quick payouts after events like the Al Haouz earthquake.
The Philippines’ DRFI strategy, which includes risk retention mechanisms like national disaster funds and risk transfer mechanisms such as parametric insurance and catastrophe bonds, have been crucial in providing quick financial support during disasters. The country’s National Asset Registry System (NARS), a consolidated database of “non-financial critical and strategically important government assets”, enables long-term sustainable asset management through efficient financial risk management that enhances service delivery, and improves risk reduction for sustainability. Utilizing NARS, more than 130,000 schools are covered through the National Indemnity Insurance Program against fire and natural catastrophes.
In the Marshall Islands, efforts are ongoing to modernize DRFI legislation, establish contingency funds, and seek international partnerships to enhance financial resilience.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency highlighted the importance of combining disaster risk reduction with DRFI to invest in resilient infrastructure, presenting a case for integrated approaches to resilience building and stressed on the need for strong governance and institutional frameworks to support these initiatives.
In line with its DRFI Strategy, Indonesia has embarked on a journey to establish its State Asset Insurance program as part of its risk transfer mechanisms for public assets. The program offers 10% of all insurable office, health and educational buildings with coverage against perils including fire, floods and earthquakes.
2. Pre-arranged finance for public assets plays a crucial role in managing governments’ disaster-related contingent liabilities.
Linking financial preparedness with operational preparedness is crucial for building comprehensive disaster resilience, particularly in the context of public asset protection.
Effective management of public assets involves assessing risks, ensuring resilience, and planning for contingencies. This approach not only safeguards critical infrastructure but also enhances overall disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
3. Risk pools are a promising solution to help address the ever-widening insurance protection gap.
By aggregating risks across multiple countries in one region, regional risk pools, now available in the Caribbean, Africa, Pacific and Southeast Asia, enable countries to diversify their financial buffers and absorb shocks more effectively. However, there are challenges associated with designing innovative financing structures and ensuring sustainable implementation of risk pooling solutions. Dialogue between countries, regional risk pools, reinsurers, brokers, technology providers and development partners is crucial to foster an understanding of diverse perspectives, needs, and roles.
Delegates from Grenada, a member of CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) -, shared their journey with their catastrophe insurance policy. While it hadn’t been triggered since its inception in 2007 the government continued to purchase the policy to ensure protection. Training provided by CCRIF SPC has enabled a shift from reliance on immediate assistance to a focus on risk management and resilience. In July 2024, Grenada received multiple payouts related to Tropical Cyclone Beryl from the CCRIF SPC including to their electric and water utilities. The total payout amounted to more than $50 million, demonstrating the real proof of the value of continued protection through disaster risk financing mechanisms.
Delegates from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Malawi, Tonga and Lao PDR shared their experiences of engaging stakeholders across ministry and local governments in tailoring insurance products to meet their unique needs.
Regional risk pools offer significant benefits by reducing transaction costs, accessing centralized expertise, decreasing total premium costs through economies of scale, and diversifying risk. As regional sovereign risk insurance providers, CCRIF SPC, African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.), Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC), and SEADRIF indicated that the design of business models to ensure sustainability, as well as ways of securing support for capital, premium subsidy, and technical assistance are areas requiring continuous improvement.
Many countries in Southeast Asia face significant exposure to climate and disaster risks; however, the diversification of risk across these countries offers opportunities for more efficient financial protection. SEADRIF highlighted that a potential structure for joint protection against earthquakes could result in premiums being approximately 16% lower compared to countries purchasing coverage individually, purely due to the benefits of risk diversification. By creating a larger, more diversified portfolio and taking a collective approach to the insurance market, even greater savings could be realized, with estimated overall price reductions of up to 25%.
4. Data and analytics are crucial for enhancing risk assessment across all phases of disasters, including accurate risk evaluation, rapid response, and damage assessment.
However, challenges persist, such as data availability in low-to-middle income countries, alongside emerging opportunities facilitated by advancements in AI and open data platforms.
In Morocco, satellite data and machine learning have been leveraged to minimize basis risks, allowing for parametric insurance, and actuarial modeling allows for quantification of the opportunity costs between diverse risk financing instruments. In the aftermath of the Al Haouz Earthquake in September 2023, the public mechanisms unlocked US$300 million and the losses were covered fully by risk pooling.
Insights from Nanyang Technological University included those on the ASEAN Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Phase 2 (ADRFI-2) platform which, in addition to making accessible hazard assessments for earthquake, flood and tropical cyclones, offers national and regional exposure, including exposure by-building utilizing high-resolution satellite imagery. Critical risk metrics for DRFI instrument design such as loss exceedances from Annual Average Loss to Probable Maximum Loss are also made available.
Many organizations are involved in the implementation of data and analytics for public benefit, but there is often limited coordination or exchange of information across stakeholders. Participants representing governments, regional risk pools, development institutions, academia, reinsurers, brokers, and technology providers all agreed that greater transparency is necessary in knowledge and information exchange to facilitate collaboration across organizations and regions in an effort to share best practices and common pitfalls.
5. Partnership and capacity building
Strengthening financial protection requires robust partnership at the local, regional and global levels to maximize reach, scale and impact. Comprehensive and effective DRFI strategies can be developed and implemented by leveraging the strengths and expertise of various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, academia, think tanks, private sector entities, and civil society organizations. Partnerships ensure that DRFI approaches are not only robust but also contextually relevant, addressing the specific needs and challenges of different regions and communities. They foster innovation, resource mobilization, and knowledge sharing.
APEC, ASEAN+3 and SEADRIF are examples of how regional-level partnerships can advance DRFI through enhancing regional cooperation and dialogue, pooling resources and expertise, strengthening financial resilience, and capacity building and knowledge sharing.
Academia, such as Nanyang Technological University, and think tanks like the Global Asia Insurance Partnership (GAIP), bring specialized research and technical expertise to the development of innovative DRFI strategies, contributing to informed policy-making and the advancement of financial protection mechanisms.
Japan has shown global leadership in elevating DRFI to the forefront of the development agenda. The Japan-World Bank Program for Mainstreaming Disaster Resilience in Developing Countries, managed by the Tokyo DRM Hub, has been supporting policy dialogues on DRFI in global and regional forums. DRFI in-country capacity building engagements supported by the Japan-World Bank Program have been instrumental in the design and implementation of risk financing strategies that help countries and regions better manage disaster risks, and safeguard critical infrastructure and public/private assets. Such activities have helped to develop the baseline for strategic plans for DRFI in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, provide an understanding of the enabling environment for DRFI in South Asia, and assess disaster related contingent liabilities in Latin America.
Global partnerships also play a significant role in strengthening financial protection, and coordination between programs is essential to meet the increasing needs of client countries. The Risk Finance Umbrella (RFU) Program, which is managed by the World Bank and supported by key donors such as the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Swiss Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), consolidates analytical and advisory activities to bolster financial resilience in low- and middle-income countries. The Global Shield Financing Facility (GSFF), which evolved from the Global Risk Finance Facility (GRiF) strengthens the financial resilience of countries and people by enabling design and implementation of financial solutions. The US$415m program financed by Canada, Germany, Luxembourg, UK, and Japan, complements the RFU and works downstream to co-finance World Bank lending Programs to put in place financial solutions, but also undertakes delivery of global engagements where there are knowledge and capacity gaps in the DRF landscape. As the global risk financing landscape evolves, together, the GSFF and RFU exemplify the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable disaster risk financing.
The role of the private sector is critical in co-financing the cost of natural disasters and making risk transfer options available. Public sector stakeholders are increasingly tapping into private sector expertise to develop ways of managing their financial exposure to disaster risks. To strengthen this collaboration, communication and trust-building, as well as improving the volume and quality of data such as on hazard risks and assets is crucial.
The Insurance Development Forum (IDF), represented by Tokio Marine, highlighted the importance of constantly upgrading risk assessment capabilities by showcasing successful partnerships between public and private sector stakeholders in Japan’s high-speed rail and offshore wind power projects.. This helps refine the allocation of risk bearing among relevant stakeholders.
Understanding complex risk financing concepts and insurance models can be challenging. During discussions at UR24, risk pools and their member countries emphasized the vital role of training, knowledge exchange, and effective communication to underscore the significance of insurance among diverse stakeholders and member countries.
To conclude, Global forums such as the Understanding Risk 2024 underscore the importance of robust disaster risk financing and insurance strategies in building financial resilience against climate and disaster impacts. By sharing innovative approaches and successful case studies, global leaders and practitioners can better navigate the complex disaster risk finance landscape and select options that are best suited for their needs. The WBG’s support in fostering regional partnerships, expanding the DRFI knowledge base, and leveraging data analytics remains vital in closing the financial protection gap amid more intense and frequent natural hazards.
Authors: Ahmed Eiweida, with contribution from Hideyasu Kiyomoto, Yoshihiro Senda, and Dixi Mengote-Quah
Cultural Heritage Symposium for UR24
Resilient Cultural Heritage: Reflections on Japan’s Castle Conservation Legacy
Walking through UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world always feels like stepping back in time. I can sense the presence of those who lived there, ponder their lives, and trying to understand the historical context that shaped the place. The stories and legends associated with ruins often add layers of meaning, offering a deeper understanding of their significance. My visit to Himeji Castle in June 2024 for the Understanding Risk 2024 Global Forum (UR2024) organized by the World Bank, was no exception. It left me deeply moved, not just by its architectural grandeur but by its resilience.
At UR24’s Public Symposium on Cultural Heritage and Disaster Risk Reduction, I had the privilege of moderating a panel discussion with Mayor Hideyasu Kiyomoto of Himeji City, and Professor Yoshihiro Senda of Nagoya City University, one of Japan’s leading experts on castles.
Himeji Castle is one of the few remaining examples of castle architecture from the Warring States period in Japan that fortunately has not been damaged by war, earthquake, or fire. The ongoing efforts by Himeji City to preserve this iconic cultural heritage site, guided by a comprehensive management plan under the Japanese government’s supervision, are truly impressive.
Nicknamed “Shirasagi-jo” (White Heron castle), Himeji Castle has been a symbol of strength and perseverance through many trials and tribulations over the past 400 years. The reinforcement of Himeji Castle’s foundation against earthquakes and the fireproofing of its wooden pillars, beams, floors and roofs are outstanding. The castle has survived numerous natural hazards, including the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake 30 years ago.
Professor Senda explained to the more than 700 participants in the symposium the characteristics of Himeji Castle, the importance of disaster risk management in cultural heritage, and the latest conservation and restoration techniques and structural strengthening techniques used in Japan today. He also explained in detail the restoration of cultural heritage sites at Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto Earthquake, 2016) and Maruoka Castle (Fukui Earthquake, 1948). In particular, he explained that the Kumamoto earthquake provided an opportunity to reconsider the past policy of preserving and restoring buildings as much as possible as they were originally constructed. Fortunately, there were no casualties because the earthquake occurred in the middle of the night, but if the stonewalls that collapsed heavily are rebuilt in the same way, there is a possibility of serious casualties in the future when an earthquake of the same scale occurs, depending on the time of day. How can we prevent this and at the same time restore the original construction method as much as possible? To answer this question, a large-scale “shaking experiment” of stone walls was conducted with government funding in order to elucidate the destruction mechanism of stone walls. The empirical data obtained from these experiments was used to select appropriate restoration methods through unprecedented deliberations by the government, the local government, and the academic research community which had not happened before. He also talked about the interesting cultural property restoration project that is still underway today, including the novel organizational approach to planning and managing the repair and reconstruction of the castle.
(L) Learning about castle stone wall restoration and management; (R) Ahmed Eiweida, World Bank Global Coordinator for Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism, at Himeji Castle.
Mayor Kiyomoto, who was born and raised in Himeji, emphasized that his mission as Mayor of Himeji is to hand down Himeji Castle to the next generation, and that the identity of Himeji citizens is not only to take pride in Himeji Castle and its history, but also to assume great responsibility as the custodian of Himeji Castle and its future. He hoped that the resilience lessons learned from Himeji Castle and Japan’s commitment to heritage preservation would be a source of inspiration for cultural heritage leaders and managers around the world, and that they would draw inspiration from the Japanese experience and work together to protect and promote cultural heritage for future generations was advocated.
Through our visit to Himeji Castle, we gained a good understanding of Japan’s strengths in preserving and protecting its cultural heritage. Japan’s commitment to preserving its rich history and traditions is exceptional, The World Bank Tokyo Disaster Risk Management Hub’s 2020 publication “Resilient Cultural Heritage: Learning from Japan’s Experience” sheds light on Japan’s exemplary practices in cultural heritage protection.
In many ways, Japan’s approach serves as a global model. Their dedication not only to preserving the past but also to preparing for the future ensures that these treasures will endure. As we reflect on our visit, we’re reminded that the resilience of cultural heritage sites like Himeji Castle offers invaluable lessons for heritage conservation worldwide.
Ahmed Eiweida serves as the World Bank Global Coordinator for Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism and is the Vietnam Sector Leader for Sustainable Development. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, urban policies, municipal finance and infrastructure, local economic development, urban upgrading, and urban regeneration.
Mayor Kiyomoto obtained his medical license and Doctor of Medicine from Kagawa Medical University. He pursued further research as an academic researcher at the University of Texas, US. Upon returning to Japan, he served as a lecturer at Kagawa University Hospital. He transferred to Tohoku University School of Medicine in October 2010, where he became a professor in February 2012. He received the Commendation for Science and Technology from the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (under the Public Understanding Promotion Category of the Awards for Science and Technology) for his contribution to the reconstruction of areas affected by disasters. In April 2016, he was seconded to the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development as a research officer and a program officer. He left Tohoku University in May 2018. In April 2019, he became the Mayor of Himeji, and later was re-elected in April 2023.
Born in Aichi Prefecture in 1963, Professor Senda graduated from Nara University and earned a Doctor of Letters from Osaka University. He has held positions including associate professor at the National Museum of Japanese History and President of Nara University. He specializes in castle archaeology. Currently, he serves as a specially appointed professor at Nagoya City University’s Institute for Advanced Education and Research, as well as a professor at Nara University. He is a council member of the Association for the Conservation of Cultural Property Stone Walls and also serves on the councils of the Eisei Bunko Museum and Nara National Museum. He is actively involved in the survey and maintenance of castle ruins throughout Japan. (Photo by Kazuhisa Hatanaka)
Dixi Mengote-Quah, Disaster Risk Management Specialist, Tokyo DRM Hub, World Bank
She has worked on Bank operations in East Asia Pacific, with a focus on flood risk management, climate resilience, and nature-based solutions for watershed management and slope protection. She brings private sector and government experience in planning, detailed design of climate-adaptive landscapes, and green building retrofits. She currently manages knowledge products and financing for DRM technical assistance in Latin America and East and Asia Pacific, and previously Europe and Central Asia. She has master’s degrees in Engineering and in Built Environment Design from NTU Singapore and the University of Cambridge.
Disaster risk management is a national priority in Japan, and its importance is increasing worldwide due to natural hazards and climate change effects. With the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake (GHAE) in 2025, the World Bank hosted the 8thUnderstanding Risk Forum in Himeji, Japan which was substantially damaged by the 1995 earthquake.
The WHO Centre for Development (WHO Kobe Centre – WKC) coordinates major projects on Health Emergencies and Disaster Risk Management (Health EDRM). As an international expert in this field, WKC’s technical lead, Dr Ryoma Kayano, was invited to participate in the Forum and presented a session on “Generating the evidence base for DRM in the health sector: tools and approaches”. Most countries are likely to experience health emergencies which can increase death and disease, disrupt essential health services and damage infrastructure.
“Conducting research on Health EDRM generates data and evidence for learning lessons and making evidence-based decisions. This helps countries to become proactive rather than reactive. It means understanding and managing risks pre-emptively, adapting and aligning core capabilities to protect health from specific threats to manage all-hazards, and building resilient communities through leadership, capacity and collaboration,” said Dr Kayano.
“For instance, from data and evidence from the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, we learnt the health consequences of evacuation include indirect death from deep vein thrombosis, and living in temporary accommodation can increase worsen noncommunicable diseases and cognitive impairment. From this, research studies pointed to measures such as encouraging community participation in exercise or hobbies to reduce depression and mitigate cognitive disability after the disaster,” he said.
The WHO Kobe Centre is the secretariat of the WHO Health EDRM Research Network of over 380 experts from 58 countries, and facilitates global and regional collaborative research and activities. The Centre also produced a research method guidance for health research before, during and after emergencies and disasters. A hands-on guidance is being developed for policy-makers, implementers and scientists to promote research for evidence-based decision-making.The WHO Kobe Centre conducts Health EDRM research and promotes its uptake to ensure that more people will be better protected from the health impact of emergencies and disasters. This is one of the three major priorities of WHO’s 13th and 14th global programmes of work – to protect one billion more people from health emergencies.
In this talk, Emiliano Rodriguez Nuesch will present tips and tools to navigate the waves of risk. Topics will include four lenses: ● The Innovation Lenses Tools like systems-thinking to map inter-relations between risk and hazards and define where to make interventions. ● The Risk Perception Lenses Understanding how people and different cultures perceive multi-hazard risk. (Example from Easter Island and Polynesia)
● The Science of Emotions Lenses What are the emotions that we need to tap into to communicate multi-hazard risk so that people engage in a positive and sustainable way? (Example from uses of music and storytelling) ● The Behavioral Lenses What are the nudges and interventions we can make to reduce risk and help communities better prepare? (Examples from New Zealand).
Speaker
Emiliano Rodriguez Nuesch
Pacifico
Risk communications and behavioral science specialist. Director of Pacifico Risk Communications, with projects deployed in more than 50 countries, using non conventional tools to tackle risk posed by natural hazards. Creative Director of the Disaster Fighters campaign. Producer of the Tsunami Ladies documentary series, a Sendai Framework commitment. His work on risk communications with Greenpeace was awarded a Gold Lion at Cannes Festival of Creativity. His work was presented at UNDRR, Harvard, MIT, US Geological Survey, Natural History Museum in Los Angeles and SXSW in Austin. Bachelor in Science in Multimedia Computing. University of West London. Masters of Behavioral Science candidate at the London School of Economics.
Today we are living the midst of a climate change crisis with an unprecedented number of disasters happening around the world. At the same time, we live in a rapidly changing world where rapid advances in science and technology are transforming all aspects of human society, and the field of disaster management is no different. This rate of innovation and technical integration was never seen before in history. Disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, robots and internet of things are providing new innovative solutions to address disaster preparedness, prevention, response, mitigation and recovery.
UNEP’s Representative at the Focus Group on AI for Natural Disaster Management United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Paula PADRINO VILELA is presently leading UNEP’s activities related to Modern Technologies in Disaster Management in her capacity as Project Coordinator within the Disasters and Conflicts Branch. She is also UNEP’s representative at the joint ITU/WMO/UNEP Focus Group on AI for Natural Disaster Management. Paula has previous professional experience in the humanitarian and human rights fields, working for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and NATO. She possesses an LLM in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights from the Geneva Academy and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations from the Universidad Europea de Madrid.
After 4 years, the Understanding Risk Global Forum is back in person bringing the energy that only in-person interactions can offer. At UR conferences, we seek to provide an inclusive, creative and fun space for meaningful risk knowledge exchange, encouraging collaboration among disaster risk experts and practitioners from all over the world and between global and regional organizations. We aim to spur innovation and spark lasting partnerships.
The UR22 theme, “Riding the waves of risk,” focuses on climate and disaster risks in a multi-hazard world. To better understand risk, prevent disasters from happening, and build resilience, UR22 will explore the space where these multi-hazards collide and how disaster impacts cascade in unpredictable ways. The main hub location in Florianopolis offers an exceptional opportunity for the world to learn from Brazil and vice versa and strengthen the sustainable development agenda, moving from understanding risk to action on disaster resilience.
DO LOOK UP – An Aerial Aacrobatics Performance for Understanding Risk
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to fall from 20 feet just relying on one person to catch you? Or being lifted in the air with no control of external forces? Circus arts and acrobatics bring a deep connection between risk, trust, anticipation, and performance. Like pilots in the civil aviation sector, circus artists are remarkably talented at understanding, foreseeing, and managing what can go wrong: They look up and actually go there, where magic happens. Circus artists straddle fine lines in mitigating without eliminating risk, using the risk itself as a medium for community engagement and inspiration. Can we, as risk practitioners, learn from their talent and creativity?
The Circocan International School of Circus brings a tailor-made, live performance to UR2022 in Florianópolis. Depicting the preparation and development process of an acrobatic creation, this performance conveys how a risky, life-threatening situation can be managed through listening, connecting, trusting and relying on your surrounding community. The goal: inspire thinking and transformative action on how we perceive, communicate, and address risk.
Direction: Nickolle Abreu Concept: Nickolle Abreu, Alan (Alby) Lee, Pedro Mello e Cruz, and Pablo Suarez Performers: Circocan International School of Circus Original soundtrack: Nico Cassinelli, Nickolle Abreu, and Pablo Suarez
Speakers
Joaquin Toro
Lead Disaster Risk Management Specialist / World Bank, GFDRR
Joaquín Toro is the regional coordinator for disaster risk management in Latin America and the Caribbean at the World Bank. He joined the Bank in 2003 in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region and helped setting up the LAC and Europe and Central Asia DRM Teams. He is part of the founders of Understanding Risk Community and Forums. He has more than 20 years of disaster risk management experience and holds a master’s degree in engineering management and systems engineering from George Washington University.
Pablo Suarez
Artist in Residence / National University of Singapore. Lloyd’s Register Foundation Institute for the Public Understanding of Risk
Dr Pablo Suarez is a researcher turned humanitarian worker and innovator. He is artist in residence at the Institute for the Public Understanding of Risk at the National University of Singapore, visiting researcher at Cambridge University, and innovation lead at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre. Pablo has consulted for the World Bank, Oxfam, and about twenty other humanitarian and development organizations, working from rural Zambia to the White House in more than 60 countries. His creative approaches to risk management range from new financial instruments to collaboration with aerial acrobats to inspire thinking and action.
Floods and wildfires are some of the most common and deadly natural disasters on the planet. Every year, they affect hundreds of millions of people, cause thousands of fatalities and cost billions in economic damages. Google’s AI Research teams are passionate and committed to developing new early warning systems and crisis management solutions that will empower governments, organizations and citizens to take timely actions, limiting damage and loss of life.
The Flood Forecasting initiative aims to provide accurate and actionable flood alerts covering all affected by floods globally. Currently the focus is on riverine floods. In 2022 we established a partnership with the government of Brazil in order to leverage local data and expertise to deliver high quality flood forecasts on Google Search, Maps and on Google’s new dedicated flood info center – the FloodHub.
The Wildfires initiative aims to provide accurate information regarding the boundaries of wildfires in real-time.
Speakers
Newton Neto
Director, Global Partnerships LatAm Google
Newton Neto is a digital business builder and executive with over 20 years experience in the information technology industry. Started as a software developer then got deeply involved in strategic business development on a global basis. Worked on leading international trade organizations such as Amcham-Brazil and US Chamber of Commerce. Had senior positions at Porto Digital, Meantime/C.E.S.A.R and Ediouro Publishing. At Google since 2011, Newton leads strategic partnerships and business development efforts in Latin America for several Google Product Areas such as Search, Maps, Local, Commerce, Ads, Research & Machine Intelligence, Web, Social Impact, and the Assistant.
Sella Nevo
Engineering Lead for Flood Forecasting and Wildfires Google Research
Sella Nevo leads the Google Flood Forecasting Initiative, which aims to provide high-accuracy flood forecasts and warnings globally, alongside several other humanitarian and environmental efforts at Google. He also teaches Applied Ethics and Information Security at Tel Aviv University, is a Venture Partner at the VC firm First Time which invests in climate startups, and is on the advisory board of ALLFED – the Alliance to Feed the Earth.
In the aftermath of a disaster, someone must pay the bill. Sometimes, the government covers most of the expenses, and sometimes, bills are left unpaid. However, national governments are improving their response to physical and financial risks by learning about the contingent liabilities of disasters in the finance of countries. In this panel, we will explore how governments are getting ready to pay the bills, the financial tools they are using, and the cost of not investing in adaptation to climate change and risk reduction activities.
Participants: Min Finance Honduras, Minister Finance St. Lucia, Director for Poverty Alleviation and Community Empowerment Indonesia
Disaster Risk Management Specialist World Bank, GFDRR
Mirtha Escobar; Disaster Risk Management Specialist, World Bank. She is a Disaster Risk Management Specialist of the Latin American and Caribbean region at the World Bank. Her professional focus is on the implementation of innovative projects and financing mechanisms for adaptation and mitigation of climate change. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Management and Climate Change from Virginia Tech University.
Roberto Ramirez Alvarenga
Vice Minister of Public Credit and Public Investment Ministry of Finance. Government of Honduras
Roberto Carlos Ramirez Alvarenga has a degree in Economics from the National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH) in 2003 and a Master’s in Economic Policy from Williams College University of Massachusetts, United States of America (USA) in 2011. In the professional area Vice Minister Ramírez worked for more than 17 years at the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH), as Head of the Macroeconomic Modeling Section, later he worked as a consultant for different studies on projects and economic impacts. He also worked at the United Nations for UNICEF. Also, it has collaborated with the Economic Commission for Latin America (CEPAL) for the formulation and generation of a Latin American price index, as well as the calculation of prices in purchasing parity, also collaborated with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to the creation and application of a general equilibrium macroeconomic model for Honduras. In the area of Human Talent training and Academy, he was a trainer of the debt strategy program, financed by Debt Relief International (DRI) of London, England, training personnel from the Central Bank of Nicaragua and the Ministry of Finance, in addition to exercising teaching at the Metropolitan University (UMH) and UNAH in master classes in different subjects related to Economics.
Wayne Girard
Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Youth Economy. Government of Saint Lucia
Wayne Girard is a Saint Lucian politician who serves as the Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Youth Economy. Wayne earned his undergraduate degree in 2004 from the University of Wales in Business with Law and pursued post-graduate, executive education programmes at Chicago Booth/Oxford Said Business School: Corporate Valuation Programme and Oxford Said Business School: Fintech Programme and is currently pursuing a Certificate in Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
Pak Maliki
Director for Poverty Alleviation and Community Empowerment / Ministry of National Development Planning/National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas). Government of Indonesia
Maliki has been working in the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) for more than 22 years. Since 2019, he has been appointed as the Director for Poverty Alleviation and Community Empowerment. His main task is to design policy planning for developing social protection programs and social empowerment models. He also manages various cross-cutting issues concerning people with vulnerabilities, including navigating the country’s strategy for aging issues and inclusive development. Currently, he is in charge of Indonesia’s Social Protection System Reform roadmap. Two main reform strategies under his coordination are formulating the Adaptive Social Protection scheme and developing the Socio-Economic Registry, which is now being implemented nationally, covering 100% of Indonesian population. These two strategies ensure that social protection in Indonesia is more inclusive and effective in preventing poverty and deprivation.
Risk in the Era of Digital Platforms (no recording)
(Due to technical difficulties, this session had no audio), In our current world, social media is part of our daily lives. We check the news, get the new dancing moves, and follow our favourite teams, politicians, and idols. Undoubtedly, social media is here to stay. But how can we better leverage these platforms in the disaster risk reduction, resilience, and development sector? In this panel, we will discuss best practices and tools to improve our social media presence, and hear how key players are to taking advantage of the different applications.
Global Partnerships and Innovation Manager Twitter
Lauren Devoll advises some of the most influential and innovative policymakers, government agencies, and members of civil society as a Global Innovation Partnerships Manager at Twitter. Together they design content strategies that create impact, contribute to product changes, and support philanthropic efforts. She is a frequently-requested public speaker at engagements around the world including those hosted by the United Nations, the International Federation of the Red Cross, and the Government Social Media network. Previous to her tenure at Twitter, she built and executed original social, e-commerce, and creative programs at the RNC and NRCC. Before her ten years in Washington, she earned a Bachelor’s in Public Relations with an emphasis in Leadership Analysis from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Thomas Lehmann
Public Policy Manager, Spanish Speaking Latin America TikTok
Tom Lehmann joined TikTok’s Public Policy team in late 2019 and works with public stakeholders across Latin America and the Caribbean on topics ranging from safety to platform regulation. Tom was previously the Development Manager at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, where he led relations with external partners and assisted in the planning and implementation of the Technology and International Affairs Program. Prior to this, spent two years in rural China serving at risk and under resourced youth as a Fellow with Teach for China. Tom has also been a farmer, landscaper, and outdoor trip leader. Tom graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor’s in Chinese Studies and Black Studies.
Lisa Robinson
Head of Advisory / BBC Media Action
Lisa Robinson is Head of Advisory at BBC Media Action where she advises on creative media and communication strategies to influence change at scale. Her work focuses on disaster risk reduction, climate change and emergency response. She leads a team of Senior Advisors covering media ecosystems, information disorder, governance, social cohesion, economic development, health, and diversity and inclusion. Their work supports teams across 20 low- and middle-income countries and reached over 130 million people last year.
(L) Learning about castle stone wall restoration and management; (R) Ahmed Eiweida, World Bank Global Coordinator for Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism, at Himeji Castle.
