Ibero-American nations establish major disaster risk reduction network

Twenty-two Ibero-American countries have officially formed the Ibero-American Network for Disaster Risk Reduction and Civil Protection (RGIR). The initiative aims to strengthen hazard management, preparedness, and emergency response across a region encompassing approximately 670 million citizens.

The network was established during the first Conference of National Authorities held in Madrid, Spain. The initiative responds to the high exposure of Ibero-American nations to natural, technological, and anthropogenic phenomena that cause significant human, economic, and environmental impacts annually.

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska noted that the move is necessary because risks do not respect borders and states often cannot respond to catastrophes in isolation. Andorra is set to preside over the network until the end of 2028. Participating nations include Andorra, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Spain, among others.