Global Observatory for Early Warning System Investments Launched by UNDRR and WMO

By systematically tracking funding flows from nine major financing institutions, the platform helps stakeholders identify gaps, prevent duplication, and direct resources to vulnerable communities.

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have launched the Global Observatory for Early Warning System (EWS) Investments, a platform to track and analyze global investments in EWS projects. This initiative aims to address gaps in disaster preparedness and advance the UN's goal of universal early warning system coverage by 2027.

Addressing Fragmented Financing for Early Warning Systems

Launched in December 2024, the Global Observatory aims to provide a comprehensive view of EWS financing. It responds to a critical recommendation from the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) Advisory Panel for better understanding and coordination of EWS investments. By systematically tracking funding flows from nine major financing institutions, the platform helps stakeholders identify gaps, prevent duplication, and direct resources to vulnerable communities.

Key Insights from Initial Findings:

• Funding Concentration: 54% of national-level EWS funding is concentrated in just five countries.
• Funding Types: 75% of reported financing is in the form of loans and credits, with only 25% in grants.
• Vulnerable Regions: Significant gaps exist in funding for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Land-Locked Developing Countries (LLDCs).

Platform Features:

• Comprehensive Tracking: Disaggregated tagging and tracking of EWS investments by region and sector.
• AI-Enhanced Analysis: Artificial intelligence tools for advanced tracking, analysis, and visualization of funding data.
• Collaboration Insights: Identification of opportunities for synergy and coordinated investments.

Future Directions: The Observatory plans to deepen collaboration with international finance institutions and further leverage AI capabilities to refine investment analysis and support evidence-based decision-making. This evolution will enhance transparency and alignment of EWS funding streams, helping advance the global goal of universal EWS coverage.

About the Global Observatory for EWS Investments: This initiative shares information on EWS investments from multilateral development banks and climate funds, promoting coherence, alignment, and efficient resource use. It directly supports the UN Secretary-General's Early Warnings for All Initiative, striving to ensure that every individual worldwide benefits from life-saving early warning systems by 2027.