UN Adopts Landmark Declaration on Sea-Level Rise

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a declaration on sea-level rise on 25 September 2026, placing stronger emphasis on international cooperation, science, disaster-risk reduction and long-term adaptation planning.

Around 770 million people live less than five metres above the high-tide line, according to figures highlighted by the World Meteorological Organization. Coastal communities, small islands and low-lying cities face growing exposure to flooding, erosion and saltwater intrusion.

The declaration calls for stronger data and observation systems, early warning, resilience planning and coordinated action alongside emissions reduction.

Source: World Meteorological Organization, 25 September 2026 — https://wmo.int/media/news/un-general-assembly-adopts-declaration-sea-level-rise