Peace and good institutions save lives from floods

In the first half of 2025 alone, devastating floods swept across Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, the United States, and South Africa, killing hundreds and displacing more. The World Meteorological Organization warns that, as floods increase in intensity and frequency, many countries struggle to translate early warnings into effective response. Why do some countries succeed in minimising the human toll of floods, while others face repeated catastrophes? The answer lies not only in meteorological or economic conditions, but also in political ones.