In cooperation with the Community of European Research for Innovation and Security (CERIS), the first EU-Japan Workshop on Research and Innovation in Support of Disaster Risk Reduction was held at the Uji Campus of Kyoto University on 3-4 March, 2025, where B-prepared colleagues were invited to present and participate with posters.

In the first panel titled Societal Resilience, Orsolya Székely-Keresztesi, B-prepared Communications Manager, held a presentation about how using games and gamification can support enhanced disaster prevention and preparedness, followed by a lively Q&A session. On the next day, Zoltán Székely (SFC) talked about co-creation of disaster knowledge and culture 

in a global context as part of the Governance panel. In the poster section Espen Kon (EKON) had the opportunity to showcase Disastropedia and VR-prepared side by side, while Roey Kon (EKON) took the lead in documenting the event as a great photographer.

It was a truly enlightening experience listening to the conversation unfolding, where people from such distant parts of the world could come together to share their experiences. It is not often that European researchers can sit together with Far-Eastern professionals – and through our differences find our similarities and build connections, ensuring that not only memories, but professional collaboration would last.

Many projects have partnered with Japanese organizations, focusing on societal resilience and technologies for first responders. While research outputs are valuable for DRR policies, communication with stakeholders remains difficult. This workshop gathered representatives to discuss research and its communication, focusing on how scientific findings are implemented by authorities in both regions. The event aimed to provide insights and recommendations for improving disaster risk governance and communication.

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) policies – like the UN Sendai Framework for Action and the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) – are embedded in international frameworks. However, awareness of these policies is often lacking at the citizen and local levels. This is especially true in the European Union, where there is a disconnect between research and its implementation. The importance of collaboration among key Disaster Risk Reduction actors – policymakers, scientists, practitioners, SME/industry and civil society representatives has been highlighted.