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The report examines the 'last mile' of tsunami early warning systems (EWS) in the Indian Ocean, arguing that while significant technical and institutional progress has been made, the human dimension of response is often neglected. Through participatory assessments in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, the study identifies critical gaps in community engagement, trust in technology, and the integration of disaster risk reduction (DRR) with local livelihoods. It recommends moving from a prescriptive, expert-driven approach to a people-centred model that prioritizes sub-national context, sustainable local funding, and the reconciliation of EWS with other community priorities.

The report assesses the differential vulnerability and recovery of Khao Lak, Patong Beach, and Phi Phi Don after the 2004 tsunami. It finds that Patong's established history and strong business associations led to the swiftest recovery, while Khao Lak's status as a new destination and Phi Phi Don's governance and infrastructure challenges slowed their progress. The study highlights that reinforced concrete structures and diversified livelihoods increased resilience, whereas poor local governance, limited credit access for small businesses, and inadequate waste management increased vulnerability. It recommends improving micro-credit access, strengthening public-private coordination, and enhancing disaster preparedness training.

The report evaluates Thailand's post-2004 tsunami disaster risk reduction (DRR) and early warning system (EWS) efforts, focusing on Krabi Province. While national institutional frameworks and monitoring technologies like DART buoys have improved, significant gaps remain in the 'last mile'—the connection between national warnings and local action. Key failures include dysfunctional warning towers, inappropriate evacuation routes, and a lack of community-specific risk knowledge. The study argues for a shift toward 'people-centred' EWS that integrates indigenous knowledge, ensures local government accountability, and aligns DRM with community livelihoods to overcome distrust and resource constraints at the sub-national level.