This first event established the conceptual grounding for the Pacific Disaster Risk Knowledge Series by clarifying what disaster and climate risk information is, how it is assessed, and why it matters for planning, investment, and resilience. The session aimed to build a shared understanding of risk concepts and to strengthen demand for the use of risk information across national and regional decision-making processes.

Participants were introduced to the core components of climate and disaster risk assessments—hazard, exposure, vulnerability, and risk—and explored the differences between qualitative, probabilistic, and financial assessment approaches. The event also highlighted the importance of credible, well-communicated risk information for guiding policy, investment, and resilience-building efforts.

Delivered through a 90-minute interactive format, the session featured a keynote delivered by Steve Goldfinch, Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist at ADB, two panel discussions, a Menti exercise, and a synthesis segment. Speakers brought national, regional, and technical perspectives:

• Litea Biukoto (Deputy Director, Disaster and Water Resilience Programme, Geoscience, Energy and Maritime Division, Pacific Community);
• Johnie Tarry Nimau (Senior M&E Officer/PaRTNeR 2 Country Coordinator, Government of Vanuatu);
• Lisa Kingsberry (Director, Strategic Communication, Outreach, & Engagement, Pacific Community);
• Luka Selu (Director, National Disaster Management Office, Government of Tuvalu);
• Gabrielle Emery (Head of Pacific Sub-Regional Office, UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction).

A rapid-fire round of questions then yielded targeted insights into tools, communication approaches, institutional uptake, and enabling conditions.

The session concluded with a synthesis of key takeaways and a preview of Event 2, which would focus on access, tools, and innovation—highlighting how improved platforms, data systems, and peer learning mechanisms can strengthen the use of risk information in real-world decisions.