Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
Geneva, Switzerland – June 2, 2025
In a significant step toward enhancing disaster risk reduction across the Arab region, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction for Arab States (UNDRR ROAS) hosted a consultative meeting on the Priority Action Plan for DRR 2025–2027 during the 9th session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025) in Geneva. The event brought together key stakeholders from Arab governments, international partners, and disaster risk reduction (DRR) experts to discuss and endorse the plan, which aims to transform commitments into tangible actions for disaster resilience.
The consultation marked a pivotal moment in the region’s disaster risk reduction efforts. With strong representation from Arab states, the event also provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the outcomes of the 6th Arab Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Forum held earlier in Kuwait, as well as the next steps toward achieving the Sendai Framework’s goals.
A Unified Vision for Disaster Risk Reduction
The meeting commenced with opening remarks from Ms. Nora Achkar, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for Arab States, who welcomed participants and stressed the importance of the meeting in shaping the future of DRR in the Arab region.
“This plan represents more than just a roadmap; it is a collective expression of our regional ambition to move from commitment to action. Together, we can pave the way toward a more resilient Arab region,” said Ms. Nora Achkar.
Ms. Achkar highlighted the key priorities in the plan, which focus on understanding disaster risks, strengthening governance, investing in DRR for prevention and resilience, and enhancing preparedness for effective response and recovery. She thanked the Arab states and partners for their valuable contributions and insights in shaping the plan, emphasizing that its success depends on collaboration and shared commitment.
In his remarks, Dr. Mustafa Saadi of the League of Arab States (LAS) also underscored the importance of a united regional approach to DRR. As the head of the Arab Coordination Mechanism for Disaster Risk Reduction at the LAS, Dr. Saadi emphasized the collective responsibility of Arab countries to implement the priorities of the Sendai Framework and address the challenges posed by disasters and climate change.
“The League of Arab States is fully committed to supporting the implementation of this plan, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the Arab region,” Dr. Saadi stated.
Reflections on the Kuwait Declaration
Major General Talal Al-Roumi, Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF), shared reflections on the outcomes of the 6th Arab Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Forum hosted by Kuwait earlier this year. He emphasized Kuwait’s continued commitment to regional disaster risk reduction efforts and the importance of translating declarations into action.
“The Kuwait Declaration reaffirmed our region’s commitment to resilience. We now look forward to seeing the Priority Action Plan implemented to protect lives and livelihoods across the Arab world,” Major General Al-Roumi stated.
Key Outcomes from the Working Groups
Following the opening session, participants were divided into thematic working groups to focus on the four priority areas of the Priority Action Plan 2025–2027:
- Understanding Disaster Risks
- Strengthening DRR Governance
- Investing in DRR Financing for Prevention and Resilience
- Enhancing Preparedness for Effective Response and Recovery
Each group reviewed feedback from member states and stakeholders, proposed joint initiatives, and worked toward building consensus on the activities under each priority. These discussions were critical in ensuring that the action plan reflected the diverse needs and priorities of Arab countries while aligning with global DRR commitments.
Endorsement of the Action Plan
The consultation concluded with a strong endorsement of the Priority Action Plan 2025–2027, as all parties expressed their commitment to its implementation.
“The success of this plan depends on all of us,” Ms. Achkar remarked. “This is not just a technical meeting—it’s a platform for regional solidarity, cooperation, and leadership. Today’s discussions bring us one step closer to achieving a more resilient Arab region.”
Looking Ahead: Collaborative Action for a Resilient Future
The Priority Action Plan 2025–2027 lays a clear pathway for strengthening disaster risk management across the Arab region. With strong commitment from both Arab states and international partners, the plan is poised to drive transformative change, making the region better prepared for future disasters and building resilience in the face of climate change.
As countries begin to implement the prioritized actions, the consultative meeting served as a reminder of the power of collaboration in overcoming challenges and ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across the Arab world.
Key Takeaways from the Consultation:
The Priority Action Plan 2025–2027 was endorsed by all stakeholders, marking a key milestone in the region’s disaster risk reduction efforts.
The four priority areas—understanding disaster risks, strengthening governance, investing in DRR financing, and enhancing preparedness—were thoroughly discussed and refined.
Member states committed to leading joint initiatives in partnership with UNDRR and other stakeholders, ensuring a collective approach to disaster risk reduction.
With the endorsement of the plan, the Arab region is taking significant steps toward a safer, more resilient future.