Working Group XI on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Resilience addresses the growing challenges faced by urban areas in the context of climate change, rapid population growth, and systemic crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and resource scarcity. With over 60% of the global population expected to live in urban areas by 2030, local governments are under increasing pressure to confront frequent and intense disasters while dealing with economic, social, and environmental vulnerabilities. The group recognizes the need for a comprehensive approach to resilience, particularly at the local level where mandates often exceed available resources. It highlights the role of education and training institutions in contextualizing knowledge and supporting evidence-based governance to build stronger, more resilient communities.
The objective of the working group is to foster academic and practical contributions that explore how disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation can be effectively integrated into urban development strategies. It aims to identify innovative governance models, assess decentralization frameworks, and highlight training initiatives that support local authorities in embedding resilience into planning processes. The group also seeks to understand how local governments can overcome financial constraints, promote partnerships with academia and the private sector, and leverage education and training to expand access to technical skills and sustainable solutions for risk-informed decision-making.