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The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami remains a profound moment in global history — an unprecedented disaster that tragically affected millions across 14 countries and reshaped our collective approach to disaster preparedness and international solidarity.This 20th-anniversary commemoration honors the memory of those lost and the resilience of survivors while underscoring significant progress in tsunami early warning systems, achieved through enhanced cooperation and preparedness.
UNESCO and its Member States are committed to ensuring that all at-risk coastal communities are “Tsunami Ready” by 2030, equipping populations with essential tools to reduce risk and enhance resilience. This solemn event will reflect on the enduring importance of multilateral action in disaster risk reduction and affirm UNESCO’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives through education, science, and cooperation.
Highlights
Interpretation in French and English will be available throughout the event.
- Opening Address by UNESCO Director-General or her representative, alongside high-level officials from the most affected countries.
- Matt Porteous, award-winning photographer for the United Kingdom Royal Family, will present curated Survivor Stories from Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and more, sharing personal journeys of resilience.
- Ongoing initiatives to safeguard communities worldwide: UNESCO’s Tsunami Ready Program.
- Special Performance: A concert by renowned violinist Eijin Nimura, symbolizingunity and hope in the face of adversity.
Exhibition: Tsunami: Sea Change for Resilience
Visit an open-air exhibition around the UNESCO fences prepared in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and Nautilus, featuring portraits by Matt Porteous and bringing together inspiring stories of tsunami survivors with the historical and contemporary artworks which commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Register now to join!
Join us to take part in a powerful evening dedicated to resilience, remembrance, and a shared commitment to disaster preparedness. A unique opportunity to connect with and learn from survivors, experts, and leaders committed to building a safer future.
The event will take place at the UNESCO Headquarters Room I, 125 avenue de Suffren, France | Date: 26 November 2024 Time: 6 PM – 8 PM. Doors open from 4.30 PM.