EU steps up support for disaster preparedness and humanitarian aid in Asia

The European Commission has released nearly €11 million to support humanitarian aid and strengthen disaster preparedness across Asia in 2026.

Over €8.7 million will fund disaster preparedness initiatives throughout the region, the majority through a regional allocation of €7 million covering ASEAN countries, as well as Nepal and Sri Lanka. In addition, a dedicated envelope will fund country-specific disaster preparedness actions in Nepal (€1.7 million).

This funding will support the development of early warning systems, foster actions that promote climate and environmental resilience, and contribute to developing shock-responsive social protection mechanisms to help communities most at risk. In Nepal, funding will also aim at improving health emergency preparedness, as well as anticipatory actions.

A further €2 million are allocated to humanitarian assistance in the Philippines, which will support populations impacted by multiple disasters such as tropical cyclones, as well as victims of conflict.

This announcement comes as Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, is visiting Japan this week, where she will meet with national and local authorities to exchange on preparedness, disaster risk management and humanitarian aid. During her visit, the Commissioner will visit Fukushima to mark the 15^th anniversary since the earthquake and tsunami of 2011, paying tribute to those who lost their lives in this devastating tragedy. She will also travel to the Noto Peninsula, which was struck by an earthquake in 2024 that claimed more than 240 lives.

Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib said: 

‘Japan is a like-minded partner and a global leader in humanitarian action. It has a deep experience in preparing for disasters and responding when crisis strikes. Japan is also a strong example of societal preparedness, including in schools, where children learn from an early age how to respond in an emergency. As Europe puts its Preparedness Strategy into action, Japan's experience can help us build stronger, more resilient societies.’