FutureWater aims to support the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in the development of a new multi-hazard Early Warning System (EWS) facility, addressing the significant exposure to disaster risks of the developing member countries (DMCs). The enhancement of multi-hazard EWS aligns with global commitments, such as the Paris Agreement, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Sustainable Development Goal 13, Sendai Framework Target G, and the Early Warnings for All Initiative (EW4All).

The implementation of MHEWS, however, is significantly lagging across the world with several countries still not protected by it. Coverage is limited in developing countries on the frontlines of disasters and climate change.  To address this concern, a workshop entitled “Regional Workshop on Increasing Investments in Early Warning Systems” was organized by ADB on 1-2 February 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. The workshop aimed to establish the rationale for an EWS support facility within ADB and devise a roadmap for its establishment and operations.

The workshop targeted technical representatives from ministries of planning, finance, and national disaster management organizations from the following DMCs: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

It also included representatives from various international, regional, and technical organizations, such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF), UNESCO, UNDRR, World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES), Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Additionally, representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) participated, including regional climate change specialists, and sector specialists in agriculture and natural resources, energy, private sector, urban development, transport, and water.

The workshop facilitated a deeper understanding of DMCs’ priorities and requirements regarding the enhancement of their investments in multi-hazard EWS by bringing together stakeholders from various regions. It gathered insights into the specific needs and challenges faced by different countries in strengthening their EWS capabilities. Furthermore, the workshop fostered a collaborative approach to designing a facility that could effectively meet the technical assistance, grants, and loan needs of DMCs.

Participants actively participated in co-design processes, as well as in the development of establishment and implementation guidelines, and investment concept notes. This ensured that the proposed facility was customized to effectively address the unique circumstances and contexts of the DMCs involved. For more information regarding the project please visit the project page or contact s.khanal@futurewater.nl