Asians Speak Webinar Strengthens Strategies for Fair and Sustainable Disaster Recovery

Human Initiative emphasized the importance of justice in disaster response and recovery through its participation in the International Webinar Asians Speak titled Justice in Disaster Relief, Lessons Learned from Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand on 23 February 2026. The webinar brought together civil society representatives from Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand to discuss government responses to the major disasters that occurred in December 2025.

The webinar took place from 12.00 to 14.00 WIB and 10.30 to 12.30 Colombo time via Zoom. The event was organized by the Centre for Conflict and Humanitarianism of Driyarkara School of Philosophy Jakarta in collaboration with Lakhsman Kadirgamar Institute Sri Lanka, Duayjay Group Thailand, and Human Initiative. The discussion featured Anchana Heemmina from Thailand, Nimal Kumar from Sri Lanka, and Dara Minanda from Indonesia, with Titi Moektijasih from UNOCHA Indonesia serving as moderator.

Floods and landslides in Indonesia affected 3.3 million people and caused more than 1,000 deaths. Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka affected around two million people and resulted in 600 fatalities. Flooding in southern Thailand affected 2.9 million people and claimed 400 lives. These events highlighted that disasters can exceed existing preparedness and require stronger coordination among governments, civil society, and international partners.

In his presentation, Dara Minanda from Human Initiative stated, “For me, justice in disaster recovery means ensuring protection for those most affected. It means inclusion, giving affected communities a voice in decisions about their own recovery. And it means building resilience that lasts long after media attention fades and short term funding cycles end.”

The forum highlighted three key focus areas. The first was preparedness and rapid response. The second was international and civil society collaboration. The third concerned political dynamics and public trust. Sri Lanka moved quickly to declare an emergency status, Thailand strengthened coordination through military command structures, while Indonesia faced challenges related to public communication and the selection of international assistance.

Solidarity makes every journey more meaningful. When different stakeholders move together, no distance becomes too far and no burden too heavy. Through shared effort, communities find the strength to continue moving forward, sharing support, and nurturing hope for those affected.

Multi stakeholder collaboration strengthens the effectiveness of recovery efforts, directly involves communities, and helps break cycles of vulnerability. Through solusipeduli.org, individuals and institutions can contribute to humanitarian responses that are fair, accountable, and dignified.