IDRLF Incheon 2023

Overview

Enabling technology application and partnerships for climate and disaster risk reduction

Following the inaugural 2022 Forum on ‘The Role of Cities in Reducing Complex Risk’, the 2nd Forum focused on the opportunities and challenges of technology application for climate and disaster risk reduction at the local level. At the midpoint of implementing the Sendai Framework (2015–2030), it set out from the recognition that greater effort and investment at the national and local levels are needed as climate change and crises threaten the resilience of the most vulnerable.

As the pioneering experience of Northeast Asian countries shows, technology plays a vital role at every stage of disaster risk reduction, from understanding and assessing risk to early warning and saving lives. Yet accessing and applying advanced technology is not easy for many local governments. The Political Declaration of the Midterm Review of the Sendai Framework, adopted in May 2023, likewise called for greater investment in research, digital technology and early warning systems, alongside the role of science, technology and innovation.

The sessions discussed technology applications for disaster risk reduction in regional, national and local contexts, and explored people-centred, accessible technology solutions — including early warnings for all — and opportunities for innovative partnerships. Songdo Smart City’s disaster governance experience was also shared. The Forum was hosted by Incheon Metropolitan City, the Incheon Institute and UNDRR ONEA & GETI, with the support of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and in cooperation with the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (TCS) and ASEAN.