CONECTARSE
Tsunami Risk in the Mediterranean: Malta and Stromboli Island in Focus in New Documentaries
Launched on the 28th of November at the UNESCO cinema, both documentaries highlight the challenges posed by tsunami in the Mediterranean region, an area that is characterized by significant seismic and volcanic activity. Through interviews with academics, tsunami experts and local communities the documentaries explore the readiness of Malta and Stromboli as well as individuals’ relationship with living under the existing risk of tsunamis.
Malta: Tsunami Risk and Preparedness
The first documentary explores Malta's vulnerability to tsunamis, shaped by its proximity to tectonic activity in the Mediterranean. It examines historical tsunami events and public perceptions of potential future impacts. It also highlights Malta’s ongoing initiatives to enhance preparedness, including efforts to:
- Strengthen early warning systems
- Promote risk-aware behaviors among coastal populations
- Establish Marsaxlokk as the first UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready Community in Malta
This documentary emphasizes the importance of integrating historical awareness, modern technologies, and community engagement to mitigate tsunami risks effectively.
Stromboli: Volcano Tsunami Warning System
The second documentary shifts focus to Stromboli, an island where volcanic activity is a constant presence. Through interviews, residents share their perspectives on living with tsunami risks, offering insights into a culture of resilience shaped by life near an active volcano.
The film also highlights advancements in the island’s tsunami early warning system. These include the integration of real-time volcanic activity monitoring with regional and national networks, enabling enhanced detection and response protocols. Stromboli serves as a model for managing the complex interplay of natural hazards.
Launch event:
On 28 November 2024, the Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the North-Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Connected Seas Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (ICG/NEAMTWS) and the DG ECHO-funded CoastWAVE Project held a screening at the UNESCO cinema for the official launch of the two documentaries.
Mr.Bernardo Aliaga, Head, and Dr. Denis Chang Seng, Programme Specialist of UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Resilience Section - both present at the launch event – stressed the importance of the documentaries in supporting the conversation and actions in addressing multiple tsunami threats while building safer and more resilient coastal communities.
UNESCO
H.E. Mr. Liborio Stellino, Permanent Delegate of Italy to UNESCO, emphasized the importance of such initiatives: “The presented testimonials highlight Italy's ongoing commitment to supporting UNESCO in mitigating tsunami-related risks. The scientific activities conducted on Stromboli provide valuable insights that can help protect Italian coastal communities and prevent significant damage from similar events in distant seas in the future.”
H.E. Mr. Liborio Stellino, Permanent Delegate of Italy to UNESCO
UNESCO
Both documentaries were produced by Pacifico, a company specializing in creative risk communications, and directed by Mr. Emiliano Rodriguez Nuesch.
Special thanks to Ms. Derya Vennin, Associate Project Officer, for moderating the event.