Political Declaration of the 2024 Europe & Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

The Political Declaration of the 2024 Europe & Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction emerged from the Ministerial Roundtable, where Member States reaffirmed their political commitment to a resilient future for all. Held in Budva, Montenegro, the Platform convened ministers and representatives from across Europe and Central Asia at a pivotal moment to address the rising challenges of climate change and urgent disaster risk reduction needs. Taking place just ahead of COP29 in Baku and on the verge of the final five-year push to achieve the Sendai Framework, the Paris Agreement, and the Sustainable Development Goals, the Ministerial Roundtable reaffirmed a shared commitment to safeguard communities, economies, and ecosystems.

The Political Declaration includes commitments to advance seven objectives of the four priority areas outlined in the European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR) Roadmap 2021-2030, initially adopted at the previous Regional Platform in Matosinhos, Portugal. In the Declaration, Member States pledged intensified action on climate-driven risks and other hazards, with a focus on promoting earthquake preparedness and recovery through the launch of the “Montenegro Call for Action.” This initiative emphasizes strengthened regional collaboration, resilient infrastructure, and investments to mitigate earthquake risks. Additionally, the Declaration acknowledges the “Road to Resilience for Europe and Central Asia's Children and Youth: Call to Action,” affirming support to engage with youth stakeholders to achieve the objectives outlined within.