Statement by the UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka on the 20th Anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami

Today, we solemnly mark 20 years since the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, a tragedy that claimed over 225,000 lives across the region, including 35,000 in Sri Lanka, of which at least 10,000 were children. This day remains etched in our collective memory as one of profound loss.

In Sri Lanka, the tsunami devastated communities, displacing hundreds of thousands, destroying livelihoods, and leaving families grieving for loved ones. Entire towns and villages were swept away, and the scars of that day remain vivid for those who survived. On this solemn anniversary, we honour the memory of the victims and extend our deepest sympathies to those who continue to bear the pain of their loss.

The aftermath of the tsunami saw an extraordinary outpouring of solidarity and support, with Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts standing as a testament to the strength and resilience of its people, the power of collaboration among communities, and the steadfast assistance of the international community. The tsunami also highlighted the critical importance of disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and scientific solutions to better understand and predict and mitigate the impact of tsunamis.

Over the past 20 years, significant progress has been made locally and regionally to reduce vulnerabilities. Community preparedness has been prioritized in Sri Lanka through nationwide tsunami evacuation drills, awareness campaigns, and disaster education programmes in schools, empowering communities with the knowledge and skills to act appropriately and swiftly in emergencies.

At the regional level, the establishment of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System has been a game-changer. This collaborative network of 28 countries, including Sri Lanka, has significantly enhanced the region’s capacity to detect and respond to tsunamis, enabling timely and accurate alerts that save lives. Building on this progress, the United Nations remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to build resilience and protect communities from the risks posed by natural disasters.

As we observe this sombre milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to learning from the past and taking decisive action to create a future where the impacts of such disasters are mitigated, through preparedness, innovation and collective resolve.