Held in Nadi, Fiji from 28 - 30 March 2023 and organised under the Pacific Resilience Partnership (PRP) the event was an opportunity for national leaders to discuss how to better prepare for and act before disaster strikes.
Anticipatory action, also known as Early Warning Early Action, is focused on reducing the impact of disasters and crises before they occur. The four-day event explored key components of anticipatory action, including risk information, early warning systems, inclusive planning, and pre-arranged financing.
The primary goal of the event was to enhance understanding and preparedness for anticipatory action across the Pacific in the face of climate change and escalating disaster risks. Attendees shared experiences, best practices, and challenges related to anticipatory action. They articulated country-level visions and identified next steps for advancing anticipatory action at both regional and national levels.
"Climate-related natural disasters are a regional concern. By uniting Pacific Leaders, we create a space to learn from one another and strengthen our national and regional efforts in anticipatory action," said Finau Heuifanga Leveni, IFRC’s Regional Disaster Law Coordinator.
"A coordinated and collective approach will lead to a more resilient Pacific, safeguarding both lives and livelihoods in the face of future disasters."
Discussions included looking at how Anticipatory Action could be integrated within national laws and policies, which was recognised as essential for effective implementation. National partners discussed the role of legislation in mandating preparedness roles and responsibilities, ensuring coordination and in releasing funding before and during disasters.
The Pacific Week of Anticipatory Action reaffirmed the region's commitment to building a more resilient Pacific. Together, leaders and partners are working to safeguard the well-being of their communities in the face of future disasters.