The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) has opened applications for the Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026, a Japan-funded learning opportunity designed to strengthen disaster risk reduction knowledge, leadership capacity and community resilience across the Asia-Pacific region.
The programme is seeking 500 motivated participants of all genders aged 18 and above, with particular relevance to people living in or originating from Pacific Island countries and territories and Asian countries. Participants will receive free training in disaster risk reduction, inclusive leadership, climate-related risks, community resilience, communication and disaster preparedness.
According to UNITAR, the programme will draw on both the Asia-Pacific context and Japan’s experience with natural hazards to help participants develop practical disaster risk reduction plans that respond to the specific needs of their communities and countries. The official UNITAR announcement confirms that the programme is offered free of charge with financial support from the Government and People of Japan.
Opportunity Overview
- Programme: UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026
- Theme: Building Economies and Livelihoods Resilient to Global Shocks
- Organiser: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
- Funding: Government and People of Japan
- Number of participants: Approximately 500
- Gender: All genders are welcome
- Age requirement: 18 years and above
- Language: English
- Format: Online learning, followed by specialized training for top-performing participants
- Programme period: August 2026 to March 2027
- Cost: Free
- Certificate: UNITAR certificate for participants who complete all requirements
- Application deadline: 21 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. JST (UTC+9)
UNITAR’s official announcement confirms the 21 August 2026 deadline and the target of 500 participants.
What Is the UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Programme?
The UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme is designed to help individuals develop the knowledge, leadership capabilities and practical skills required to contribute to disaster preparedness, prevention, response and resilience.
Although the programme places a strong emphasis on women’s leadership, it is not restricted exclusively to women. UNITAR explicitly states that motivated learners of all genders are welcome. The programme also welcomes applicants from outside the priority geographical areas, while noting that the learning content is particularly contextualized to the Pacific Islands and Asia.
The initiative reflects UNITAR’s broader work on leadership, empowerment and inclusive disaster risk reduction. UNITAR identifies inclusive leadership, women’s leadership, effective communication, project development and inclusive disaster risk reduction planning among its focus areas.
The programme is particularly relevant at a time when communities are facing increasingly complex risks associated with natural hazards, climate change, environmental degradation, economic disruptions and other global shocks.
Rather than focusing exclusively on theoretical knowledge, the training is structured to help participants translate what they learn into practical disaster risk reduction planning for their own communities and countries.
Why This Programme Matters
Disasters can have disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities, particularly where people have limited access to resources, infrastructure, information and decision-making opportunities.
Effective disaster risk reduction therefore requires more than emergency response. Communities need leaders who understand risk, can communicate effectively, can identify vulnerable groups, can work across sectors and can develop plans that incorporate local knowledge and community priorities.
The UNITAR programme addresses these needs by combining:
- Disaster risk reduction education
- Leadership development
- Gender-inclusive approaches
- Community-based planning
- Climate change considerations
- Ecosystem-based approaches
- Nature-based solutions
- Indigenous and traditional knowledge
- Communication and media skills
- Understanding of vulnerable groups
- Practical disaster risk reduction planning
- Lessons from Japanese disaster experiences
UNITAR’s wider disaster risk reduction work emphasizes empowering women and other vulnerable groups with inclusive leadership skills that can strengthen communities and institutions.
Programme Structure
The 2026 programme is divided into two major phases.
Phase I: Online Learning
Period: August to November 2026
Approximately 500 selected participants will take part in the first phase through online learning.
The online phase is designed to establish a strong foundation in disaster risk reduction and inclusive leadership.
Participants will be expected to:
- Complete self-paced online learning modules.
- Participate in webinars featuring experts.
- Complete assignments.
- Study disaster risk reduction concepts.
- Examine international frameworks and development goals.
- Explore community and ecosystem-based approaches.
- Develop an individual disaster risk reduction plan.
- Reflect on leadership, gender and resilience.
- Apply lessons to their own communities and countries.
The online format makes the first phase accessible to participants across different countries and territories without requiring international travel.
Phase II: Specialized Training With Experts
The strongest performers from Phase I will be invited to participate in specialized training with experts.
For participants from Asia and non-Pacific countries, the specialized workshop is scheduled to take place online in February 2027.
For participants from Pacific countries, the specialized workshop is scheduled to take place in person in March 2027.
The second phase will provide opportunities to engage with regional and international institutions, academics and humanitarian experts through specialized lectures, discussions and other learning activities.
For Pacific participants, the in-person component is expected to include study tours in addition to lectures and discussions.
Important Note About the Phase II Dates
The information provided for the 2026 programme indicates that the Pacific Phase II workshop will take place in March 2027. This is consistent with the programme’s two-phase timeline beginning in 2026.
Applicants should therefore distinguish the 2027 Phase II workshop from previous cycles of the programme. UNITAR’s 2025 cycle, for example, had its specialized training in March 2026.
Learning Objectives
One of the strongest aspects of the UNITAR training is its practical learning approach.
By completing Phase I, participants are expected to develop a foundational understanding of disaster risk reduction and apply that knowledge to planning.
Phase I Learning Objectives
Participants will learn to:
- Develop basic knowledge and understanding of disaster risk reduction concepts.
- Discuss fundamental principles of disaster risk reduction.
- Understand the relevance of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
- Connect disaster risk reduction with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Understand ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction.
- Explain community-based disaster risk reduction approaches.
- Develop an inclusive country-level disaster risk reduction plan.
- Examine lessons from Japan’s experience with natural hazards.
- Study lessons from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami.
- Examine lessons from the 2018 West Japan Floods.
- Understand the importance of gender-inclusive leadership.
- Examine women’s leadership in disaster risk reduction.
- Explore norms, challenges and best practices relating to women’s leadership in the Pacific and Japan.
These objectives are designed to help participants move beyond simply understanding disasters to considering how communities can systematically identify, reduce and manage risks.
Phase II Learning Objectives
Participants selected for the second phase will develop more advanced skills.
These include:
- Understanding the characteristics required for effective leadership and management.
- Developing a technical understanding of hazards.
- Learning about hazard assessment tools.
- Improving communication skills relevant to disaster risk reduction.
- Developing communication skills for working with the media.
- Understanding the specific needs of vulnerable groups.
- Exploring nature-based solutions.
- Appreciating Indigenous and traditional knowledge.
- Understanding local approaches to resilience.
- Examining additional risks associated with disasters.
- Understanding stress and mental health risks in disaster contexts.
The second phase therefore moves toward more specialized leadership and practical application.
Practical Assignments
The programme is not simply based on watching lectures or completing passive online lessons.
Participants will have practical assignments designed to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts they learn.
Phase I Assignment
Participants will be required to:
Prepare and submit an individual disaster risk reduction plan.
This assignment provides an opportunity to apply the training to a real community or national context.
A strong plan could demonstrate an applicant’s understanding of:
- Major hazards affecting their community.
- Vulnerable groups.
- Existing preparedness measures.
- Potential gaps in disaster planning.
- Community resources.
- Local knowledge.
- Environmental considerations.
- Inclusive leadership.
- Communication strategies.
- Potential prevention and mitigation measures.
- Recovery and resilience considerations.
Phase II Assignment
Participants progressing to Phase II will be expected to:
Prepare and present an individual project.
This provides an additional opportunity for selected participants to demonstrate leadership, analytical thinking, communication and practical problem-solving skills.
Key Benefits of Participating
Although applicants should not approach the programme solely for the certificate, there are several valuable outcomes associated with participating.
1. Free International Training
The programme is offered free of charge, with financial support from the Government and People of Japan.
This removes the tuition barrier that can prevent many professionals, young leaders and community practitioners from accessing international training.
2. Disaster Risk Reduction Skills
Participants will gain knowledge relevant to:
- Disaster preparedness
- Risk assessment
- Community resilience
- Disaster planning
- Climate-related risks
- Emergency preparedness
- Vulnerability assessment
- Nature-based solutions
- Community-based disaster risk reduction
3. Leadership Development
The programme specifically emphasizes leadership and management.
Participants can strengthen their ability to:
- Lead teams.
- Communicate during risk situations.
- Engage communities.
- Work with different stakeholders.
- Develop inclusive plans.
- Advocate for disaster preparedness.
- Support vulnerable populations.
4. Exposure to Japanese Disaster Risk Reduction Experience
Japan has extensive experience dealing with earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and other natural hazards.
The programme gives participants an opportunity to study lessons from Japanese experiences, including the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami and the 2018 West Japan Floods.
5. Understanding Gender-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction
A key focus of the programme is recognizing the role that gender and inclusive leadership play in disaster preparedness and response.
Participants will explore the importance of ensuring that disaster planning reflects the needs and experiences of different groups within society.
6. Practical Planning Experience
Participants will develop an individual disaster risk reduction plan during Phase I.
This can help them develop practical experience that may be useful in community development, humanitarian work, climate action, disaster management, public policy and related fields.
7. Expert Engagement
Selected Phase II participants will have opportunities to learn from experts and engage with regional and international institutions, academics and humanitarian professionals.
8. UNITAR Certificate
Participants who complete all programme requirements will receive a UNITAR certificate.
This can provide formal recognition of participation and completion of the training.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is particularly suitable for individuals who have a genuine interest in disaster risk reduction, climate change, community resilience and leadership.
Potential applicants may include:
- Community leaders
- Youth leaders
- Women leaders
- Climate change advocates
- Disaster risk reduction practitioners
- Humanitarian workers
- Development professionals
- Civil society representatives
- Community development practitioners
- Emergency preparedness professionals
- Environmental advocates
- Public-sector professionals
- Educators and trainers
- Researchers
- Students and graduates with relevant interests
- Individuals working on community resilience
- Professionals interested in inclusive leadership
A formal university degree is not identified as a mandatory eligibility requirement in the stated criteria. Instead, UNITAR emphasizes age, motivation, English proficiency, computer literacy, internet access, interest in disaster risk reduction and commitment to completing the programme.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
Age
Applicants must be 18 years old or above.
Interest in Leadership and Disaster Risk Reduction
Applicants should be eager to learn about the leadership skills required for disaster risk reduction.
Passion for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in climate change, disaster risk reduction and the effects of disasters on communities.
Community Impact
Applicants should be motivated to succeed and make a positive contribution to their communities.
English Proficiency
The programme is conducted in English, so applicants should have sufficient English-language ability to participate in learning activities, webinars, assignments and discussions.
Computer Literacy
Applicants must be comfortable using computers and participating in online learning.
Internet Access
Because Phase I is delivered online, applicants need reliable access to the internet.
Commitment
Applicants must be prepared to complete the programme requirements, including online modules, webinars and assignments.
Countries and Regions Encouraged to Apply
UNITAR particularly encourages applications from Pacific Island countries and territories and countries in Asia.
Pacific Island Countries
Applicants from the following Pacific countries are specifically encouraged to participate:
- Cook Islands
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Kiribati
- Marshall Islands
- Nauru
- Niue
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
Asian Countries
Applicants from the following Asian countries are specifically encouraged to apply:
- Bangladesh
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Myanmar
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Viet Nam
UNITAR’s broader leadership and disaster risk reduction portfolio also identifies Asia and Pacific Island countries as important geographical focus areas.
Can Applicants From Other Countries Apply?
Yes.
One important aspect of this opportunity is that the programme is not strictly limited to nationals of the listed countries.
UNITAR states that learners from other parts of the world are also welcome to participate, provided they understand that the training materials are contextualized toward the Pacific Islands and Asia.
Therefore, applicants from outside the priority countries should not automatically assume they are ineligible.
However, applicants from the Pacific Islands and Asia are the principal geographical groups highlighted in the call.
Is This Programme Fully Online?
The programme begins with an online learning phase.
From August to November 2026, participants will complete online modules, participate in webinars and undertake assignments.
The second phase depends on geography:
- Asia and non-Pacific participants: Online specialized workshop in February 2027.
- Pacific participants: In-person specialized workshop in March 2027.
Applicants should therefore be prepared for online participation regardless of their location and understand that successful Pacific participants may later be invited to an in-person component.
Is the Programme Fully Funded?
The training itself is offered free of charge because it is financially supported by the Government and People of Japan.
However, applicants should carefully review the official application information for any logistical arrangements associated with Phase II, particularly for participants selected for in-person activities.
The fact that the training is free should not automatically be interpreted as a guarantee that every personal expense associated with participation will be covered unless UNITAR explicitly states so.
Why Women’s Leadership Is Central to the Programme
The programme’s emphasis on women’s leadership reflects the recognition that women play an important role in disaster preparedness, community resilience and recovery.
At the same time, UNITAR’s approach is inclusive of other genders.
This combination is important because disaster risk reduction requires an all-of-society approach. Communities need decision-making processes that consider the different risks, responsibilities, capacities and experiences of the people affected by disasters.
UNITAR describes its women’s leadership and disaster risk reduction work as supporting vulnerable groups, inclusive leadership and community empowerment.
Connection With the Sendai Framework and Sustainable Development Goals
The programme introduces participants to major international approaches to disaster risk reduction.
One of these is the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which provides an international framework for reducing disaster risk and strengthening resilience.
Participants will also examine the relationship between disaster risk reduction and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This is important because disasters can undermine development progress by damaging infrastructure, disrupting livelihoods, increasing poverty and inequality, affecting health and education and placing additional pressure on communities and governments.
Integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning can therefore help communities build resilience while pursuing broader development objectives.
Ecosystem-Based and Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction
The programme also goes beyond conventional disaster management.
Participants will explore ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction, which recognizes the role that healthy ecosystems can play in reducing disaster risks.
They will also examine community-based disaster risk reduction, emphasizing the importance of involving communities directly in understanding risks and designing solutions.
This approach recognizes that communities often possess valuable local knowledge about hazards, vulnerabilities, traditional coping mechanisms and resilience strategies.
Indigenous and Traditional Knowledge
Phase II includes a deeper exploration of Indigenous and traditional knowledge.
This is particularly relevant to Pacific communities and other locations where traditional knowledge plays an important role in environmental management, disaster preparedness and community resilience.
Combining scientific knowledge with local and traditional knowledge can help produce disaster risk reduction strategies that are more relevant to the people and environments they are intended to serve.
Communication and Media Skills
Disaster risk reduction is not only about technical planning.
Effective communication is essential before, during and after disasters.
Participants in the advanced phase will explore communication for disaster risk reduction and the media.
These skills can be valuable for professionals who may need to:
- Communicate risks to the public.
- Explain preparedness measures.
- Share emergency information.
- Work with journalists.
- Counter misinformation.
- Communicate with vulnerable groups.
- Coordinate with stakeholders.
- Promote community preparedness.
Understanding Vulnerable Groups
The programme also emphasizes understanding the needs of vulnerable groups.
This is an important component of inclusive disaster risk reduction because the effects of disasters are not experienced equally.
Effective planning should consider the needs of different populations and ensure that disaster preparedness strategies do not exclude people who may face additional barriers during emergencies.
Stress and Mental Health Risks
Disasters can produce significant psychological and social pressures.
Phase II participants will therefore also explore other risks, including stress and mental health risks.
This broadens the concept of resilience beyond physical infrastructure and emergency response to include the human and social dimensions of disaster recovery.
About UNITAR
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is the dedicated training arm of the United Nations.
Established in 1965, UNITAR works to strengthen knowledge and skills through training, research and innovative learning solutions.
Its work is delivered through partnerships and a global learning platform, with a particular focus on strengthening individuals, institutions and organizations and supporting progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals and other international priorities.
UNITAR’s work includes programmes focused on leadership, disaster risk reduction, sustainable development, climate action, peace and security, and other areas of international development.
Its leadership and empowerment portfolio specifically includes women’s leadership, effective communication, project development, gender mainstreaming and inclusive disaster risk reduction planning.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through the official UNITAR application process rather than submitting an application by email.
Applicants should:
- Review the official programme information carefully.
- Confirm that they meet the age, language, technology and commitment requirements.
- Prepare the information required for the application.
- Submit the application through the official online application platform.
- Complete the application before the stated deadline.
- Keep a record of the submitted application and any confirmation received.
UNITAR specifically states that applications will not be accepted by email.
For programme enquiries, UNITAR lists the Hiroshima Project Office contact email as DRR-Prosperity@unitar.org, but applicants should use the designated online application process rather than sending their application to that address.
Official programme information: UNITAR – Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is:
21 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST), UTC+9.
Applicants should not wait until the final hours to submit their applications. Differences between local time zones, internet connectivity problems and incomplete application information can create unnecessary last-minute challenges.
Applicants outside Japan should convert the deadline to their local time and submit well before the closing time.
Pro Tip for Applicants
Applicants should avoid treating this as a generic online course application.
A strong application should clearly communicate a genuine interest in disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, leadership and community impact.
Where the application provides opportunities to explain motivation or experience, applicants should consider highlighting:
- Their involvement in community initiatives.
- Experience working with vulnerable communities.
- Interest in climate change or environmental issues.
- Disaster preparedness or humanitarian experience.
- Leadership responsibilities.
- Volunteer activities.
- Communication or advocacy experience.
- Examples of how they have contributed to positive community change.
- Their understanding of the disaster risks affecting their community.
- How they intend to apply the knowledge gained through UNITAR.
Most importantly, applicants should demonstrate that they intend to use the training beyond the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UNITAR Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme free?
Yes. The programme is offered free of charge through financial support from the Government and People of Japan.
How many people will be selected?
Approximately 500 participants are expected to participate in Phase I.
Can men apply?
Yes. The 2026 call explicitly welcomes participants of all genders, although the programme has a strong focus on advancing women’s leadership.
What is the minimum age?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Do I need a university degree?
A university degree is not listed among the stated eligibility requirements. The programme instead emphasizes age, motivation, English proficiency, computer literacy, internet access and commitment.
Do I need professional disaster management experience?
Not according to the stated eligibility requirements. Applicants need to demonstrate an interest in disaster risk reduction and leadership and a desire to make a positive impact.
Is English required?
Yes. The programme will be delivered in English, and applicants are expected to be proficient in English.
Can applicants outside Asia and the Pacific apply?
Yes. UNITAR states that applicants from other parts of the world are welcome, although the content is contextualized toward the Pacific Islands and Asia.
Will every participant attend the in-person workshop?
No. Phase II is selective. Top-performing participants from Phase I will be invited to specialized training. The in-person component is intended for Pacific participants, while participants from Asia and non-Pacific countries will have an online workshop.
Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who complete all required programme requirements will receive a UNITAR certificate.
Can I apply by email?
No. UNITAR states that applications will not be accepted by email. Applicants should use the official application process.
Visit HERE to learn more about the UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme 2026
Final Takeaway
The UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026 provides a valuable opportunity for adults interested in disaster preparedness, climate resilience, leadership and community development to receive free training from a United Nations institution.
With approximately 500 participants expected, the programme offers a structured pathway from foundational online learning to more specialized training for top-performing participants. Its focus on inclusive leadership, community-based disaster risk reduction, gender-responsive approaches, climate change, nature-based solutions, Indigenous knowledge, communication and resilience makes it particularly relevant to people working or aspiring to work in humanitarian action, development, climate change, disaster management and community leadership.
Applicants from Pacific Island countries and territories and Asia are particularly encouraged to apply, while people from other regions are also welcome. Participants should be at least 18 years old, proficient in English, computer-literate, able to access the internet and committed to completing the programme.
With the application deadline set for 21 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. JST (UTC+9), eligible and interested applicants should begin preparing their applications as early as possible.
For the latest official information and application instructions, applicants should rely on UNITAR’s official programme announcement and application platform.
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