Geneva: The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Support Group has unanimously endorsed Ambassador Jamal Jama Al Musharakh, the UAE's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, as Chair of the Support Group for the 2025-2026 term, starting in August 2025. This marks a significant milestone as the UAE becomes the first Arab country to assume this role.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE will take over the chairmanship from the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, which holds the position for the 2024-2025 term. The UAE's leadership role underscores its commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, and proactive engagement in addressing the risks associated with climate change and disasters.
During the meeting, Al Musharakh expressed the UAE's dedication to using its leadership of the UNDRR Support Group to advance practical, long-term disaster risk reduction strategies. The UAE aims to enhance international cooperation, integrate disaster resilience into development efforts, and work with partners to protect vulnerable groups and address climate change challenges.
The UNDRR Support Group is crucial in promoting dialogue among Member States and supporting the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. It serves as a platform for strengthening international coordination to reduce disaster risks and enhance resilience to natural disasters.
As the incoming Chair, the UAE will focus on setting priorities and guiding discussions to tackle the growing challenges posed by disasters, including those worsened by climate change.
