The Integrated Research on Disaster Risk (IRDR) programme has published the fifth issue of its Phase II newsletter, covering developments from April to June 2026. This edition highlights a period of significant expansion and renewal for the IRDR community, marked by strong global engagement and a growing commitment to advancing disaster risk reduction (DRR) science.

Network Expansion and New Partnerships

The quarter saw significant growth for the IRDR community. A global call for new International Centres of Excellence (ICoEs) drew a strong response from qualified institutes worldwide. Additionally, a new agreement with Indonesia’s BRIN agency marks a critical step toward revitalising the IRDR National Committee in that country.

Global Engagements and Framework Support

The community actively advanced the Sendai Framework and post-2030 agenda through international collaborations, including engagements in Australia and ASEAN. The IRDR ICoE-CCOUC also marked its 15th anniversary with a public forum on the disaster risk–public health nexus.

Spotlight on Risk Communication

A feature from IRDR’s German National Committee (DKKV) emphasises that effective risk communication, inclusive of dialogue and a shared risk culture, are as vital as technical data for building resilient societies.

Call to Action for EM-DAT

The newsletter urges the community to support the preservation of the Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT)—a critical global public good now facing a funding threat.

Additional Updates

The issue also includes news on the IRDR Young Scientists Programme, Scientific Committee decisions, and recent honours awarded to community members.

You can read the full issue here.