The UN General Assembly recognizes the Global Platform as the global multi-stakeholder forum to review progress on implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. At the Platform, governments, the UN system, and all stakeholders get together to share knowledge and discuss the latest developments and trends in reducing disaster risk, identify gaps, and make recommendations to further accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework.

At the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, co-organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Government of Switzerland, a dynamic side event convened over 100 participants attending in person and online to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can strengthen Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) through improved modeling, early warning systems, and inclusive governance. Held in Geneva, the session brought together experts from Google, NASRDA, CGI, IDMC, ITU, and others to examine the real-world application of AI on resilience efforts, especially in low-resource settings where data access and capacity remain key challenges. The session explored how AI can support climate adaptation through locally adapted models, open-source tools, and better data access. Panelists addressed challenges such as infrastructure gaps and digital literacy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive design, ethical oversight, and global collaboration to ensure that AI enhances resilience and equity in disaster risk reduction.  

AI is transforming disaster risk reduction by improving hazard modeling, enabling faster, more accurate forecasts even in data-scarce regions. At the session, experts emphasized the importance of open-source tools, local partnerships, and community-driven design to ensure AI supports equitable resilience. The session highlighted AI´s potential to enhance the Economics of Climate Adaptation (ECA) in better modeling and ensuring that data, tools, and insights reach those making decisions on the ground. When integrated with Earth observation and social data, AI can enhance ECA by identifying high-risk areas, improving early warning systems, and informing cost-effective planning. However, speakers also warned that without inclusive governance and capacity building, these tools risk deepening existing inequalities rather than reducing them. Responsible, locally grounded AI is key to effective climate resilience.

“We are using information to influence project design. What it means is that every piece of infrastructure that is designed, based on these impact assessments, takes into consideration the climate vulnerability and climate risks.” 

– Ms. Ildiko Almasi Simsic (E&S Solutions)