Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
The Government of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) are pleased to announce that The Bahamas will host the IX Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in the Americas and the Caribbean (RP26) during the first week of May 2026. The announcement was made by the Hon. Leon Lundy, Minister of State for Disaster Risk Management of The Bahamas, during the Eighth Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The session is the leading regional forum for governments and stakeholders to share experiences, foster partnerships, and promote practical solutions to reduce disaster risk and build resilience. Rooted in the mandate of the Sendai Framework, it reflects the commitment of Member States and partners to advancing regional cooperation through inclusive, intergovernmental dialogue and action.
RP26 will build on the momentum of previous platforms, providing a space to spotlight local leadership, innovation, and practical progress toward more resilient communities. Following the Midterm Review of the Sendai Framework, and as we enter the final stretch toward 2030, RP26 represents a critical opportunity to consolidate action.
In addition, this regional platform highlights the leadership of Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in advancing disaster resilience. In particular, The Bahamas has made significant strides in revamping its disaster risk governance framework following the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which caused an estimated $3.4 billion in losses and damages—91% of which affected the private sector. The country transitioned from a reactive approach to a proactive, integrated model of disaster risk management. This includes a stronger emphasis on mitigation, prevention, adaptation, and recovery planning, supported by the merger of its National Emergency Management Agency and Disaster Reconstruction Authority into the newly established Disaster Risk Management Authority.
RP26 will provide an opportunity to assess regional progress toward the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and contribute to the implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS).
RP26 will also serve as a key forum to advance regional priorities, including resilient recovery, comprehensive disaster risk governance, and inclusive, all-of-society approaches to disaster risk management. A central focus will be the strengthening of multi-hazard early warning systems, not only as a life-saving tool, but also as an enabler of timely and informed decision-making across sectors. The Platform will further address the need for adequate financing—not only in terms of access, but also in the equitable distribution, effective use, and execution of resources at national and local levels. Drawing on insights from the 2024 Regional Assessment Report (RAR24), RP26 will spotlight the importance of systemic approaches, and of integrating risk considerations across development planning. It will showcase innovative practices and investments that are shifting the region toward a more resilient and sustainable future.
“The Bahamas is honoured to host RP26 next year. The timing aligns meaningfully with the work we have been doing to build capacity and strengthen national disaster risk governance and resilience financing in country. We hope our experience offers insight for others, and that RP26 will be a space to listen, exchange, and drive progress,” said Minister Leon Lundy, of The Bahamas.
He continued, “For SIDS like The Bahamas, this Platform is necessary. As climate impacts increase and DRR finance gaps widen, the region must keep developing and advocating for systems that reflect our realities. We hope that RP26 drives progress in critical areas such as disaster risk financing and upscaling national and regional capacities. We look forward to welcoming the region to The Bahamas in 2026. Let’s ensure this Platform is remembered not for what we say, but for what we build.”
“RP26 is a powerful opportunity to elevate the leadership of Caribbean SIDS and to amplify the lessons learned from The Bahamas’ resilient recovery and risk governance reforms after Hurricane Dorian,” said Nahuel Arenas, Chief of UNDRR – Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean. “As the region faces increasingly complex and interconnected risks, it is urgent to align efforts across sectors and countries. This platform will help catalyze action, promote innovation, and strengthen solidarity to advance the goals of the Sendai Framework across the region of the Americas & the Caribbean,” he added.
RP26 is expected to be more than just a forum—it will serve as a pivotal moment to reaffirm our collective commitment and inspire renewed collaboration across sectors and societies.
From now until 2030, every day counts. Stakeholders from governments, regional bodies, civil society, youth, academia, and the private sector are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to a shared vision for a more sustainable region.
Further details, including the dates and venue, will be shared in the coming months.