SYNERGISE Goes Japan – Advancing Disaster Resilience Through International Cooperation

In February 2026, representatives of the SYNERGISE project travelled to Japan for a week of collaboration and knowledge exchange with leading organisations in disaster management, volunteer coordination, and robotics research.

The visit began at the Nippon Volunteer Organization Summit, where SYNERGISE Coordinator Tiina Ristmäe and Patrick Böhm from the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) presented the German volunteer-based disaster response system. Discussions focused on strengthening volunteer engagement and enhancing organised disaster response capacities through international exchange.

The delegation was also invited by SYNERGISE partner Tohoku University to visit its robotics laboratories and explore innovative technologies developed for disaster response. Researchers showcased a range of innovative solutions, including search-and-rescue robots, inspection vehicles, canine support technologies, and drone systems designed to operate in challenging environments.

The final stop was the Fukushima Institute for Research, Education and Innovation (F-REI), which supports the participation of the Tohoku University team within the SYNERGISE project. During the meeting, the team presented SYNERGISE activities and highlighted the development of the SNAKE Robot, an advanced robotic system designed for operations in confined and hazardous spaces. The visit also provided an opportunity to exchange views with F-REI leadership on the future of international research collaboration and innovation for disaster resilience.

Through engagement with volunteer organisations, researchers, and innovation leaders, the Japan visit reinforced SYNERGISE’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships and advancing technologies that support safer and more resilient communities.