A ministry communiqué confirms that The 24th ASEAN Regional Forum Inter-Sessional Meeting on Disaster Relief (ARF ISM on DR) concluded in April 2026, marking Sri Lanka’s final participation as co-chair alongside Bangladesh and Viet Nam. The virtual meeting, hosted by Bangladesh, focused on reviewing the ARF Work Plan on Disaster Relief 2024–2027 and considering the proposed Manila Plan of Action 2026–2036. This signifies the third consecutive inter-sessional meeting co-chaired by Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Viet Nam.
Background
The ARF is a multilateral platform for dialogue on security issues in the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as a forum for cooperation among member states on disaster management, non-proliferation, terrorism, energy, cybersecurity, and other areas of mutual concern. The Manila Plan of Action 2026–2036 outlines a framework for regional collaboration focused on capacity-building, technological innovation, information-sharing, early warning systems, and enhanced regional cooperation in disaster management. This plan represents the next phase of the ARF’s engagement with disaster relief efforts within the region.
Analysis
The continued co-chairing role for Sri Lanka underscores its commitment to regional stability and disaster risk reduction. The meeting’s emphasis on capacity-building, technological innovation, and information sharing reflects a recognized need for enhanced preparedness among member states. However, the statement does not address the underlying drivers of vulnerability within the region – factors such as climate change impacts, urbanization, and economic inequalities. This suggests a potential gap in addressing root causes rather than solely focusing on immediate response mechanisms. The discussion surrounding the Manila Plan of Action 2026–2036, with its emphasis on technological innovation, does not appear to address the practical challenges faced by many ASEAN nations regarding access to funding and deployment of these technologies.
Implications
Sri Lanka’s participation in this ARF meeting has implications for regional cooperation in disaster management. It reinforces Sri Lanka’s role as a key player in Southeast and Central Asia, highlighting its engagement with broader ASEAN initiatives. The focus on the Manila Plan of Action 2026–2036 could influence future collaborative projects targeting enhanced regional resilience. Should the visit yield positive outcomes regarding information-sharing and early warning systems, it would strengthen the ARF’s capacity to mitigate disaster risks.
Outlook
If the proposed Manila Plan of Action 2026–2036 is adopted by member states, it could lead to increased investment in technological innovation and information-sharing. Should Sri Lanka continue its co-chairing role, it would provide a platform for advocating for equitable access to resources and technical assistance within the ARF framework. The statement does not address potential challenges related to coordinating responses across diverse national contexts or ensuring effective implementation of collaborative projects.
Conclusion
The concluding inter-sessional meeting marks a transition for Sri Lanka as it steps away from its co-chair role within the ARF Disaster Relief initiative. The ongoing need for robust regional cooperation in disaster management remains, but the statement does not offer clarity regarding long-term strategic priorities or mechanisms for sustained engagement.