Palau is taking a critical step to strengthen its resilience to tropical cyclones by developing a new nationally led Anticipatory Action (AA) Framework, under the leadership of the Palau Government and the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO).
This initiative marks a shift from reacting to disasters to acting before they strike. The framework uses forecast-based triggers to release pre-agreed funding and actions before a cyclone hits, allowing vital assistance to reach communities faster. This proactive approach saves lives, protects livelihoods, and reduces the overall impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.
In the Pacific, climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent and severe. Women, girls, and marginalized groups often bear the greatest risks, not only from physical impacts but also from increased exposure to gender-based violence (GBV) and protection risks during crises. Ensuring that preparedness plans prioritize safety, dignity, and access to services is essential for an inclusive and effective humanitarian response.
Through the Regional Anticipatory Action Technical Working Group of the Pacific Humanitarian Team, UNFPA Pacific is working alongside national partners to integrate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and GBV prevention and response within the new framework.
UNFPA is also providing technical expertise on Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and Accountability to Affected Populations, ensuring that national systems are locally driven and globally informed.
As part of the new framework, safe reporting channels and survivor-centered support mechanisms will be established to ensure that protection is central to emergency preparedness. This anticipatory approach demonstrates Palau’s leadership in building community-led, inclusive resilience that places people, especially women and girls, at the heart of disaster response planning.
Together with partners, UNFPA Pacific is helping build a future where every action taken before the storm safeguards lives during the crisis and beyond.
