Risk knows no borders. Neither do we.

Bringing together global expertise to advance research on hazards, vulnerabilities, risks, and crises to build forewarned and resilient communities worldwide.

Photo by NASA on Unsplash

About the Institute

Registered in Europe, the World Risk Institute is a global research institute and think tank advancing scientific research and development to address risks arising from natural and human-induced hazards, epidemics, and climate challenges.

Operating through a flexible, consultant-based resource pool and remote collaboration model, the institute brings together experts from around the world to collaborate virtually, ensuring diverse and interdisciplinary perspectives inform its work. Current priorities include multi-hazard, impact-based early warning systems and anticipatory action to protect vulnerable communities and promote environmental justice.

Ongoing Research Projects

A Novel Framework Development for Grid-based Heat-Health Impact Forecasting and Risk Assessment

This project aims to develop a novel framework for global grid-based heat-health risk assessment by integrating traditional risk analysis with impact-based forecasting. It combines the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) to classify heat stress levels with Earth observation data, such as NASA’s night-time light imagery as proxies for exposure and socio-economic vulnerability. A geospatial approach is being applied to overcome data granularity challenges and to map potential health risks across diverse spatial units. The framework also seeks to identify at-risk populations, including vulnerable occupational groups like garment and factory workers, with a focus on promoting environmental justice through more targeted and anticipatory heat risk management.

Formulation of a Dynamic Multi-Risk Model for Anticipating Complex Humanitarian Crises

This project aims to develop a dynamic multi-risk formula for anticipating complex humanitarian crises, with a focus on Fragility, Conflict, and Violence (FCV) contexts. The model will mathematically represent the interaction of multiple, often overlapping hazards, including conflict, displacement, climate shocks, and health emergencies, while treating vulnerability and exposure as dynamic variables that evolve over time and across scenarios. By integrating impact forecasting concepts, the formula seeks to fill a critical gap in early warning systems through a quantifiable and adaptive assessment of crisis risks in complex environments.

Areas of Expertise

Vulnerability, Exposure, and Risk Assessment

Applies both traditional and innovative scientific methods to assess how populations, systems, and assets are exposed to hazards and affected by them. Combines established risk analysis frameworks with advanced tools such as geospatial modeling and impact forecasting to identify vulnerabilities, quantify impacts, and isupport risk-informed decisionmaking.

Multi-hazard Impact-based Forecasting, Early Warning System, and Anticipatory Action Planning

We specialize in developing and delivering actionable early warning and advisory products that translate hazard forecasts into potential impacts. This expertise supports the design of anticipatory action plans by identifying who and what may be affected, where, and when. Our approach enhances preparedness and response by enabling decision-makers to act before disasters strike—across a range of hazards and operational contexts.

Earth Observation, AI, and Geospatial Technology for Decision-making

We bring expertise in leveraging Earth observation, artificial intelligence (AI), and geospatial technologies to support risk-informed decision-making. By integrating satellite imagery, remote sensing data, and advanced spatial analytics, we generate insights to monitor hazards, track exposure and vulnerability, and understand evolving risk landscapes. Our approach supports disaster risk reduction, climate resilience planning, and anticipatory humanitarian action across multiple scales and contexts.

Complex Humanitarian Crises analysis and Need Assessment: Disaster - Fragility, Conflict and Violence (FCV) Nexus

We analyze the intersections between disasters and contexts affected by fragility, conflict, and violence (FCV) to better understand compounding risks in humanitarian crises. Our work focuses on assessing needs, vulnerabilities, and response capacities in these complex settings where natural hazards, displacement, and governance challenges often overlap. This expertise supports the design of integrated risk governance and resilience strategies that are context-specific, conflict-sensitive, and responsive to both immediate and long-term needs.

Feasibility Study, Program Development, Proposal Writing, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Impact Assessment

We support the full project cycle from designing evidence-based programs to assessing their long-term impact. Our team develops innovative, context-specific interventions aligned with global standards and local priorities. We craft compelling proposals grounded in research and community needs, and ensure accountability through robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks. By integrating impact assessment into every stage, we help partners measure what matters, learn from results, and strengthen outcomes for people and the planet.

Risk Communication, Training, and Advocacy

We specialize in designing and delivering effective risk communication strategies, capacity-building initiatives, and advocacy efforts to promote risk awareness and action. Through targeted training, participatory approaches, and context-specific messaging, we help communities, practitioners, and decision-makers understand risks and respond effectively. We aim to leverage platforms like Google, Facebook, and similar digital channels to enhance advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns, reaching diverse audiences more effectively. Our work also includes advocating for inclusive, science-based policies that strengthen resilience and prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable in disaster and climate risk contexts.

Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool we use to raise awareness and connect global challenges with real-world experiences. Through photo stories, geospatial narratives, and data-driven visuals, we bring environmental and humanitarian issues into focus making complex topics accessible and relatable. Whether capturing changes on the ground or visualizing patterns from space, our stories inform, engage, and inspire action. They help bridge science and society, turning insight into impact.

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