In the Western Pacific Region, over 84,000 people drowned in 2021—accounting for nearly 30% of the world’s drowning deaths. Drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged 5–14 years in the region. The regional drowning mortality rate is 4.3 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the global average of 3.8 per 100,000.

While children are particularly vulnerable, the highest drowning death rate in the region is among adults aged 70 years and older, at 13.7 deaths per 100,000 population. Men consistently bear a greater burden of drowning than women.

These country profiles, drawn from the Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention 2024, provide at-a-glance summaries of national data on the drowning burden and efforts to prevent drowning in the Region. Key areas covered include governance and coordination, policies and legislation, community-based actions, and public awareness.