UNESCO is mandated to facilitate and promote the use of science and technology to contribute to disaster risk reduction (DRR) and conflict resolution. Reinforcing scientific cooperation is a key element for improving capacity for disaster reduction and the restoration of biological diversity.

Many conflicts are related to issues of sharing natural resources, in particular fresh water resources. UNESCO’s actions in this area have facilitated non-violent conflict resolution related to sharing of water resources and trans-boundary riparian cases. In post-disaster settings, the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission plays a leading role in the implementation of Early Warning Systems, as demonstrated in the response to the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.