SAKIGAKE管理人 March 11, 2025, marks the 14th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake. This disaster, which involved massive earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident, was one of the largest in global history, claiming the lives of nearly 20,000 people. In Japan, the message of “never forget and always be prepared” has become widespread. However, we believe it is essential to broaden our perspective and focus on “sharing Japan’s disaster preparedness knowledge with the world” and “what we can do to reduce future disaster risks.”
Over the years, Japan has established itself as a global leader in disaster preparedness. One of the most significant milestones in this journey was the adoption of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, held in Sendai in 2015. This framework has transformed how the international community approaches disaster risk reduction.
In this article, we will explore the significance of the Sendai Framework, which was developed based on the lessons learned from the Great East Japan Earthquake, and discuss Japan’s role in global disaster preparedness.
📸 The cover photo captures bereaved families gathering along the tsunami-ravaged coastline of Arahama, Sendai, for a memorial service (Taken by the author on March 11, 2023).
What is the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction?
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) is a globally recognized disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategy proposed by Japan and adopted by the United Nations in response to the lessons learned from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
A key milestone of this framework was that it was the first to establish global targets for disaster risk reduction.
The framework outlines seven key global targets:
- Reducing the Number of People Killed in Disasters
- Reduction in the number of disaster victims
- Reduction of economic losses
- Strengthen critical infrastructure
- Develop national disaster reduction plans
- Expand disaster reduction assistance to developing countries
- Strengthen international cooperation, including early warning systems
This framework has encouraged nations worldwide to shift from viewing disaster preparedness as mere risk management to integrating it as a core part of national strategy.
New Approaches to Disaster Preparedness Introduced by Japan
One of the most influential concepts introduced in the Sendai Framework was “Build Back Better”—a principle emphasizing that post-disaster recovery should not simply restore communities to their previous state but make them even more resilient against future disasters.
Additionally, the framework introduced the following new approaches to disaster preparedness:
1. Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction
The framework emphasizes that disaster preparedness should not be an afterthought but should be integrated into government policies, urban planning, and economic strategies.
For example, Japan’s strict building codes and the construction of tsunami evacuation towers have influenced disaster policies worldwide.
2. Investing in Disaster Preparedness Before a Crisis
The framework stresses the importance of pre-disaster investment rather than just focusing on response and recovery.
Japan has led the way by investing in disaster-resistant infrastructure and Business Continuity Planning (BCP), setting an example for other countries.
3. Promoting Women’s Leadership in Disaster Response
Since women and children are often the most vulnerable during disasters, the framework emphasizes the importance of incorporating women’s perspectives into DRR planning and encouraging female leadership in disaster response initiatives.
4. Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
The framework highlights that disaster risk reduction is not the sole responsibility of governments. Companies, academic institutions, civil society, and the media must collaborate to build disaster-resilient societies.
This aligns with Japan’s approach, where local governments and businesses work together to develop BCP strategies.
Japan’s Role as a Global Leader in Disaster Preparedness
Japan has played a central role in shaping international disaster preparedness policies, having hosted two UN World Conferences on Disaster Risk Reduction before the Sendai Conference. The Sendai Framework, built on Japan’s experiences, now serves as the foundation for global DRR strategies.
Furthermore, Japan continues to lead global disaster preparedness efforts through the following initiatives:
✅ Exporting Disaster Preparedness Technology: Japan’s earthquake-resistant building technology and early warning systems are being adopted worldwide.
✅ International Disaster Cooperation: Japan has launched DRR support projects for countries in Asia and Africa.
✅ Supporting Businesses in Disaster Preparedness: Japanese companies are sharing their expertise in Business Continuity Planning (BCP) with the world.
Looking to the Future—Embracing a “Disaster Preparedness × Global” Perspective
The Great East Japan Earthquake remains an unforgettable lesson for Japan. However, rather than keeping these lessons confined within Japan, we believe that sharing them with the world is essential to reducing disaster risks on a global scale.
At SAKIGAKE JAPAN, we are committed to promoting global disaster preparedness through corporate disaster consulting and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Let’s continue to approach disaster preparedness with a global mindset and work together to build a safer and more resilient future.