Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
Geneva, Switzerland – 3 June 2025
National disaster risk reduction (DRR) focal points from across the Arab region convened at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025) in Geneva to strengthen coordination, share national updates, and identify strategic priorities for implementing the Arab Prioritized Action Plan 2025–2027.
The meeting, organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Regional Office for Arab States (UNDRR ROAS), provided a platform for member states to reflect on progress, identify technical and capacity development needs, and explore opportunities for enhanced regional collaboration.
Setting the Scene for Regional Action
Opening the meeting, Ms. Nora Achkar, Chief of UNDRR ROAS, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of aligning national efforts with regional commitments under the Sendai Framework and the newly endorsed Arab Prioritized Action Plan.
“Today’s meeting is a critical opportunity to ensure that the Arab Prioritized Action Plan 2025–2027 is driven by national realities and regional solidarity. By working together, we can translate our commitments into concrete actions for a safer and more resilient Arab region,” said Ms. Achkar.
Mr. Mustafa Saadi, Head of the Arab Coordination Mechanism for Disaster Risk Reduction at the League of Arab States (LAS), echoed this call for collective action, underscoring LAS’s continued commitment to support member states in advancing DRR policies and initiatives.
Sharing National Priorities and Strengths
During the session, member states provided updates on their national DRR efforts, including achievements, ongoing challenges, and emerging priorities. Discussions focused on:
- Coordination and technical support needs to advance DRR implementation at national and local levels.
- Strengthening capacities through targeted capacity development initiatives.
- Intra-regional collaboration opportunities, including South-South cooperation and LAS-led initiatives, to foster mutual learning and accelerate progress.
A Milestone for Regional Collaboration
The meeting concluded with reflections from Ms. Achkar, who emphasized that the outcomes of the discussions represent a key milestone in advancing the implementation of the Arab Prioritized Action Plan 2025–2027.
“These discussions reaffirm the commitment of Arab states to collaborate, learn from one another, and jointly address disaster and climate risks. This regional solidarity will be essential as we move ahead with implementing the action plan and achieving a resilient future for all communities in the Arab region,” she stated.
Key Takeaways:
The meeting provided a platform for Arab states to align national priorities with the regional action plan, identify technical support needs, and propose joint initiatives.
It reinforced the importance of intra-regional collaboration to enhance capacities and accelerate DRR progress.
Outcomes from the meeting mark a significant step forward in operationalizing the Arab Prioritized Action Plan 2025–2027, paving the way for a safer, more resilient region.