Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks

Session title: Anticipatory Action and People-Centered Disaster Risk Management in the Asia-Pacific Region

Organizer(s): iMMAP Inc.

24 Mar 25 11:00-12:30 UTC+1 (Espace telecom)

SessionAbstract

Background
The Asia-Pacific region is the most disaster-prone region in the world, facing increasing risks from climate change, rapid urbanization, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Traditional reactive disaster responses often come at a high cost in lives and resources. Anticipatory action, coupled with people-centered disaster risk management (DRM), presents an opportunity to mitigate these impacts by addressing risks before they escalate into full-blown crises.

Anticipatory action leverages data, predictive analytics, and early warning systems to enable timely responses. A people-centered approach ensures that these interventions are inclusive, equitable, and driven by the needs of at-risk communities, especially marginalized groups.

Objective
To foster a dynamic dialogue among humanitarian leaders and practitioners on operationalizing anticipatory action and people-centered DRM in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting practical approaches, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.

Discussion Points
Innovations in Anticipatory Action:

How predictive analytics, early warning systems, and AI/technology enhance preparedness and response.
Success stories from Asia-Pacific and lessons learned.
Engaging Communities in DRM:

The role of local knowledge and inclusive approaches in designing anticipatory actions.
Ensuring the participation of vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Operational Challenges and Solutions:

Addressing barriers to implementing anticipatory action and people-centered DRM in complex and resource-scarce settings.
Strengthening coordination among humanitarian actors, governments, and local organizations.
Opportunities for Collaboration:

Enhancing partnerships between global actors like NORCAP, UNOCHA, and iMMAP Inc.
Leveraging existing platforms and networks to scale up anticipatory actions and inclusive DRM in the region.

Agenda

Discussion Points

Innovations in Anticipatory Action:
- How predictive analytics, early warning systems, and AI/technology enhance preparedness and response.
- Success stories from Asia-Pacific and lessons learned.
Engaging Communities in DRM:
- The role of local knowledge and inclusive approaches in designing anticipatory actions.
- Ensuring the participation of vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Operational Challenges and Solutions:
- Addressing barriers to implementing anticipatory action and people-centered DRM in complex and resource-scarce settings.
- Strengthening coordination among humanitarian actors, governments, and local organizations.
Opportunities for Collaboration:
- Enhancing partnerships between global actors like NORCAP, UNOCHA, and iMMAP Inc.
- Leveraging existing platforms and networks to scale up anticipatory actions and inclusive DRM in the region.

Speakers

Rachel Maher

Accountability to Affected People (AAP) Advisor, OCHA

Humanitarian Affairs Officer – Assessment, Planning & Monitoring Branch (APMB)

United Nations, Geneva

Daniel Gilman

Data Responsibility Team Lead, Centre for Humanitarian Data
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)

Vlad Cozma
CashCap Regional Expert – Asia & Pacific

NORCAP

Guido Pizzini
Business Development, Impact and Partnerships Director

iMMAP Inc.

Etienne Turpin

Founding Director

Anexact Office