person in an arid location speaking on a mobile phoneDate and Time 02 June 2025, 16:45 – 18:00
Location
Salle Obasi, WMO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
Session Background
Jointly organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this thematic session of the Early Warnings for All Global Multi-Stakeholder Forum explored how technological solutions can strengthen Early Warning Systems (EWS). This highlighted the potential of tech-based innovation to improve the effectiveness, timeliness, and accuracy of life-saving multi-hazard alerts.
Happening on the eve of the Global Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction 2025, discussions showcased how modern technologies, such as Cell Broadcast and satellite communication, are being used together with traditional methods like sirens, radio broadcasts, and community knowledge to ensure that alerts reach everyone at risk, especially those in remote or underserved areas. Additionally, the session explored ways to scale up scientific research to identify innovative solutions and improve existing technologies to ensure that EWS can adapt well to the changing times.
This Thematic Session showcased innovative solutions from youth and youth-led organizations in EWS, through the Call for Submissions: Youth-Led Innovation in Early Warning Systems. Integrating the youth's ideas and featuring their work in EWS strategies instilled a sense of urgency in addressing the need for a robust and resilient EWS.
Speakers
- Mr. Chris van Arum, Director of Product Management and Standards, Everbridge
- Mr. Jerome Louis, Director of Engineering Department and Officer-in-Charge, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Authority of Mauritius
- Mr. Thibyan Ibrahim, Director, Climate Change Department, Ministry of Tourism and Environment of the Maldives
- Ms. Sally Sampson, Member, CommunityMappers
- Dr. Inbal Becker-Reshef, Director, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Harvest Program
Outcomes
This Thematic Session fostered a collaborative environment where participants shared insights, showcased innovative solutions, and committed to advancing MHEWS globally.
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Stock-take of Implementation and Showcase how Science, Technology and Innovation advances MHEWS: Showcased the advancements made in integrating new and traditional technologies for EWS, highlighting successful case studies and best practices from various countries and other regional institutions.
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Outlook to 2027 and Beyond: Explored the critical means to accelerate the implementation of EWS at scale, leveraging emerging technologies, enhancing international collaboration, and increasing investment in scientific research and development.
- Localization and Diversification of Technology Solutions: Highlighted the multi-channel alerting system adapted for diverse user needs, including remote islanders and digitally excluded populations. Demonstrated the power of inclusive, user-driven methods grounded in local knowledge and global research partnerships.