ESCAP expert opinion: Why geohazards must be part of the Pacific’s resilience agenda

This expert opinion examines why geohazards must be integrated into the Pacific’s resilience agenda, complementing the focus on climate change. It addresses earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and landslides, their interconnected impacts and exposure across Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and the need for coordinated regional action. Drawing on ESCAP analysis and examples of recent disasters, including the 2024 Vanuatu earthquake and the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai eruption and tsunami, it highlights the scale of geophysical hazard risks and cascading disruption across the Pacific.

The publication identifies limited investment, technical capacity, monitoring coverage and integration of geohazard systems as key challenges. It highlights the 2023 UNESCO Regional Geohazards Meeting and the 2025 agreement among Pacific Member States to establish a regional geohazard body. The authors recommend sustained investment, stronger national and regional capabilities, improved governance and coordination, and deeper regional cooperation. They identify complementary roles for the ESCAP Trust Fund for Tsunami, Disaster and Climate Preparedness and the Pacific Community in mobilizing resources and advancing coherent national and regional approaches.