Shama Obaed calls for global support to strengthen Bangladesh’s early warning systems

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called for advanced technology and financial assistance from developed countries to strengthen early warning systems and protect lives and property from climate-related disasters.

She made the call at a high-level event titled ‘Early Warnings for All: Delivering on Our Promise to Protect Everyone’, convened by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the COP31 climate conference on 11 November.

The event was attended by heads of state and government, as well as ministers responsible for environment and disaster management.

Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Forests Dr Fahmida Khanam accompanied the state minister.

Speaking at the event, Shama Obaed highlighted the development of Bangladesh’s early warning systems since independence, noting that improvements in disaster preparedness and response have significantly reduced casualties over the years.

She said Bangladesh had made substantial investments in weather forecasting, cyclone shelters, evacuation measures and the training of community volunteers to respond to disasters. Around 50% of these volunteers are women, she added.

The state minister reaffirmed her government's commitment to protecting citizens from the impacts of climate change, highlighting the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to improve the effectiveness of the country's early warning systems.

She stressed that installing and maintaining advanced early warning systems requires substantial financial investment and technological assistance.

Calling on developed countries to extend generous support, she also underscored the importance of regional cooperation and data sharing in establishing effective early warning systems.