Multi-hazard exposure disproportionately affects vulnerable populations globally

The growing global exposure to multi-hazard events highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of how vulnerability interacts with hazards. This is particularly critical in regions with lower socio-economic development, where vulnerability amplifies hazard impacts and hinders recovery efforts, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Here, we provide a global analysis of multi-hazard exposure and disparities in socio-economic vulnerabilities using data on hazard co-occurrence and population distribution for the period 2004–2017 (with sensitivity checks extending selected hazards to 2000–2025). We analyse individual vulnerability indicators as well as their intersections. Our findings reveal that most of the global population has been exposed to multi-hazards (84%) and the findings further disclose a clear global trend: populations in areas with lower socio-economic development are significantly more likely to experience frequent multi-hazards. In the context of climate change and rising inequality, addressing these disparities is essential for advancing global development and climate justice. Frequent multi hazard exposure aligns with persistent inequalities across regions and indicators, according to a global spatial analysis integrating hazard event records with population and socioeconomic data.