Launch of the 2009 global assessment report on disaster risk reduction

A series of recent catastrophic events have yet again reminded us of the degree to which disaster risk now threatens development across the world. While some progress has been made in implementing the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005–2015 in past years, it is evident that much remains to be done at the international, national and community levels.

In the context of international commitment to the implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR), the United Nations is pleased to announce the launch of the 2009 Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction (GAR/DRR).

This report is a collaborative effort undertaken by UN agencies and partners, member states, the World Bank, regional inter-governmental and technical institutions, civil society networks, academic institutions and other ISDR System partners.

The launch of the 2009 Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction will aim to focus global media and political attention on the problem of disaster risk and to strengthen countries’ commitment to reduce the loss of life, livelihoods and economic assets through natural disasters.

The report will present a global risk analysis on emerging disaster and climatic risk patterns and trends, in particular those related to poverty and human development concerns. It will also present a comprehensive review of progress by countries in implementing disaster risk reduction measures, within the context of achieving sustainable development goals.

The Kingdom of Bahrain is delighted to have the opportunity to provide substantial financial support for the production of this important Report and has the pleasure to host its global launch on May 17 2009, in advance of the second session of the ISDR Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (16-19 June 2009, Geneva, Switzerland).

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Nations, are hopeful that this launch event will strengthen countries' commitment and cooperation to reducing disaster risk and poverty, in the context of a changing climate and in support of ongoing efforts to address one of the critical development challenges of our time.