Witness the Disaster and Recovery from a Worldwide Tsunami
The Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004 inflicted destruction on an unprecedented scale, hit multiple countries, and mobilized global support to the disaster stricken in the 21st century.
Residence that was swept away by the tsunami (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
The Indian Ocean Tsunami
On December 26, 2004 a tsunami was generated with wave heights exceeding 98 feet (30 meters), inflicting widespread destruction in Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and 12 other countries. The casualties were in excess of 310,000 lives.
Museum of Tsunami in Aceh (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
Aftermath of the Tsunami
Millions of people were affected, many lost their homes, and suffered from tremendous grief. The disaster caused significant social, cultural, and economic impact on the countries surrounding the Indian Ocean.
Monument of Tsunami in form of Floating Diesel Power Plant Ship (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
Global Spread of the Tsunami
Indonesia was the first country hit by the tsunami. Later it reached Sri Lanka and East Coast of India within 90 minutes to 2 hours. The tsunami hit Thailand’s coast in 2 hours. The waves reached South Africa, Antarctica, Pacific Ocean, West Coast of North, and South America.
Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard visiting the victims of the tsunami (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
Emergency Relief and Solidarity among Nations
The heavy loss and casualties encouraged people, international organizations, and nations around the world to mobilize assistance to the disaster-stricken countries. Many countries sent their doctors, military forces, nurses, humanitarian aid, and volunteers to the disaster sites.
President SBY and the SG of UN, Kofi Annan Special Meeting for ASEAN (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
World Leaders and Rehabilitation
In January 2015, President of the Republic of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono led the Tsunami Summit in Indonesia that attended by world leaders to discuss the management the rehabilitation on the disaster sites.
The signing of Helsinki MoU (2005-09-15)UNESCO Memory of the World
Natural Hazard and Disaster Management Technologies
This led to advancements in natural hazard and disaster management technologies to help the world prepare for and reduce the impact of such disasters. It was determined that Early Warning Systems enhanced the understanding of such risks and could lessen future losses, particularly in coastal communities.
Formers President of United States, Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush visit the disaster zone (21st century)UNESCO Memory of the World
Indian Ocean Tsunami Archives
The Archives cover a period from 2004-2009, starting at the onset of the tsunami until the end of the rehabilitation, and reconstruction processes in disaster sites. They contain individual documents, films, and photographs from and by individuals and organizations directly involved.
How Do the Indian Ocean Tsunami Archives Help?
The Archives are not only an important primary source regarding the catastrophe but also provides information in support of the development and improvement of natural hazard and disaster management systems, and technologies, especially for countries in coastal areas.
Prime Minister of Japan, Junichiro Koizumi played with child victims of the tsunami (2005-04-23)UNESCO Memory of the World
Legacy of the Indian Ocean Tsunami
The Archives provide a collective memory of a disaster that created a spirit of solidarity among nations of the world. It also informs that coastal, urban areas must build in more sustainable ways in consideration of natural hazard and disaster management strategies.
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