The Understanding Risk Global Forum 2024 (UR24) recently convened in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, bringing together over 1,700 attendees from 135 countries. This biennial event, focused on Disaster Risk Management (DRM), showcased innovations, best practices, and collaborations crucial for building resilience in the face of natural hazards.

ULAP Executive Director Aileen Leycano joined the Philippine delegation, led by Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renator Solidum, at UR24, upon the invitation of World Bank Philippines. The UR24 emphasized the importance of integrating local insights into global DRM strategies. With a backdrop of Himeji's rich cultural heritage and innovative infrastructure, the forum explored diverse perspectives on disaster preparedness and response.

Key highlights included a public symposium on sustainable and resilient cultural heritage, underscoring the role of preserving heritage in bolstering local economies amidst disasters. The opening ceremony, set in Himeji, highlighted the forum's blend of tradition and innovation, mirroring Japan's resilience journey post-1995 Great Hanshin Awaji earthquake.

UR24 featured over 250 technical sessions, workshops, and excursions curated by a Scientific Committee, fostering dialogue among experts from government agencies, NGOs, academia, and civil society. Discussions delved into DRM strategies, emphasizing lessons learned from past disasters like the Kobe earthquake and their global implications.

The forum also showcased Japanese innovations, including an Expo Area using emergency housing structures repurposed from the event, reflecting Hyogo Prefecture's commitment to sustainable disaster recovery.