Seth Techitong grew up in Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, spending his childhood swimming above coral reefs and exploring the sea that defined his sense of freedom. For him, life on the islands was simple and safe, shaped by tides and seasons. Today, however, the ocean that once symbolized freedom has become a source of threat, as rising sea levels, stronger typhoons, storm surges, and flooding increasingly endanger homes, livelihoods, and the cultural identity of Palau’s communities.
For Techitong, these climate-related hazards are personal. He fears that the places of his youth could be underwater in coming decades and is determined to ensure future generations can experience Palau’s natural beauty. Now working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) alongside the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO), he helps strengthen climate-resilient disaster shelters across the country to protect communities from extreme weather events.
This work is part of a broader UN-supported effort to build Palau’s resilience through an integrated, long-term approach focusing on people, planet, prosperity, and peace. Disaster shelters are central to this vision, forming a connected national network of safe spaces that are accessible to all during emergencies. Built to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and flooding, the shelters are equipped with typhoon shutters, rainwater catchment systems, solar lighting, generators, and water filtration systems. Four of the eight planned shelters have already been completed and handed over to local communities.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the project strengthens local capacity. Community-based Red Cross Disaster Action Teams are trained to manage shelters before, during, and after emergencies, reinforcing leadership, preparedness, and ownership at the community level. The shelters are designed inclusively to consider the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, ensuring that no one is left behind during crises.
Climate-related disasters are increasingly causing internal displacement globally, with small island states like Palau particularly vulnerable. While disaster shelters cannot halt rising seas, they provide critical protection, safeguard lives, and help communities remain rooted for as long as possible. Local conservation worker Di Maech emphasizes that these projects give hope that future generations can continue to enjoy the best parts of Palau while fostering resilience against disasters.
Techitong views the shelters not just as emergency refuges, but as community hubs that promote preparedness, connection, and adaptation. Even as he continues to swim in Palau’s waters, now infused with uncertainty, his work focuses on ensuring that communities can adapt, protect one another, and maintain the island nation’s safety and cultural heritage.
