This panel discussion, which was convened as part of SLYCAN Trust’s High-Level Forum on Climate Finance and Climate-Related Extreme Events in Colombo on January 20, 2026,  focuses on practical pathways to mobilise and access finance for disaster response and climate resilience.

Building on country experiences and institutional perspectives, panellists examine lessons from disaster risk financing mechanisms in developing countries, the evolving role of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) alongside existing instruments, and opportunities within global platforms that can support national implementation. The discussion also highlights the importance of institutional readiness, policy coherence, and public–private collaboration in closing persistent financing gaps.

Panellists:

• Dr. Maheshwar Dhakal — Board Member, Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage

• Aileen Niyaz — Technical Expert, SLYCAN Trust

• Kay Tuschen — Head of Climate Resilience Solutions, CelsiusPro Group

• Angela Rivera — Co-Chair, Santiago Network Advisory Board

Moderator: Dennis Mombauer — Director, Research & Knowledge Management, SLYCAN Trust