International Journal of Disaster Risk Management
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Retrogressive or Misplaced Priorities? An Assessment of Public Expenditure for Food Security and Disaster Risk Reduction in Uganda
Get PDFThe article argues that a rights-based approach to public investment and expenditure in agriculture and disaster risk management is a viable pathway for Uganda to realise the right to adequate food and sustainable development in line with the government’s national and international human rights commitments. This study employed a qualitative research paradigm to examine both primary and secondary data on public investment and expenditure in food security and disaster risk reduction in Uganda. Fifty-six key informant interviews were conducted with purposively selected officials at national and Local Government levels. Data and insights obtained were analysed using thematic and rights-based budget analyses. There is minimal application of rights-based approach principles in the budgeting for food security or disaster risk reduction in Uganda. Public expenditure in the agriculture sector and disaster risk management is inadequate to meet the increasing disasters in the country or to effectively protect the right to adequate food of vulnerable communities in disaster-prone regions. As a State Party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Uganda is obligated to protect and fulfil the right to adequate food for vulnerable communities in the event of disasters. This will require increased public and private investment in the agriculture sector and strengthening the disaster risk financing mechanisms at both national and Local Government levels
Impacts of Flooding Disaster Risk Management Policy For Resilience Building in Pastoral and Agro-pastoral Community: The Case of Dassenech, Southern Ethiopia
Get PDFDisaster risks management policy framework and action undertaken significantly influence disaster resilience capacities of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities of the lower Omo Valley region. This was widely hindered by the government\u27s inability to take effective infrastructural, institutional, social, and economic measures in response to its critical function at the desired level when the lower Omo Valley Dassenech rural communities were exposed to the Omo River flooding disaster. This article aims to explore and investigate the impacts of disaster risk management policies and strategies on building disaster-resilient pastoralist and agro-pastoralist Dassenech communities. Throughout the study, the researcher employed an interpretativist epistemological paradigm. Consequently, the study\u27s findings reveal that the existing policy framework overlooks the pastoral and agro-pastoral concerns associated with the recurring occurrence of the Omo River flooding disaster in the area. Therefore, building disaster-resilient pastoral and agro-pastoral communities has a substantial impact on the realisation of effective disaster risk management while ensuring sustainable socio-economic development in the lower Omo Valley southern regions of the country
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Disaster Response Coordination
Get PDFThis review critically examines the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in coordinating the core phases of disaster response: preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Drawing on illustrative case studies such as AI-driven flood forecasting with Delft-FEWS, post-disaster damage mapping via DroneDeploy, and optimised emergency dispatch through RescueME. It synthesises evidence on five core AI capabilities (machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and optimisation algorithms). We find that AI can substantially improve predictive accuracy, real-time situational awareness, rapid decision-making, resource allocation, and inter-agency collaboration, thereby addressing the speed and complexity challenges of traditional disaster management. However, adoption is hindered by fragmented data ecosystems, opaque “black box” models, interoperability gaps, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, ethical and equity concerns, and limited accessibility in low-resource settings. To overcome these barriers, we argue for the development of interoperable data standards, explainable AI frameworks, robust cyber governance protocols, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. Emerging trends, such as the convergence of AI with IoT and edge computing, enhanced human-AI decision support, and the democratisation of AI tools, offer promising pathways for building more resilient, scalable, and ethically grounded disaster response systems. By aligning technological innovation with human oversight and participatory governance, strategic integration of AI can enhance preparedness, response effectiveness, and recovery efficiency, fostering safer and more resilient communities worldwide
Understanding Ransomware Through the Lens of Disaster Risk: Implications for Cybersecurity and Economic Stability
Get PDFRansomware has emerged as a modern digital crisis, mirroring the widespread disruptions typically associated with natural or artificial disasters. As global economies grow increasingly interconnected through digital systems, the fallout from ransomware attacks stretches far beyond mere technical breaches. These incidents result in severe financial damage, disrupt operations, erode reputations, and contribute to broader socioeconomic instability. This study adopts a disaster risk perspective to examine the broader economic and social impact of ransomware, particularly its effects on critical infrastructure and public trust in institutions. Through a multi-case analysis of sixteen significant ransomware attacks between 2015 and 2025, the research highlights a recurring pattern: direct and indirect costs often compound, with impacts varying from ransom demands and halted services to reputational loss and sector-wide vulnerabilities. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) has also made these attacks more accessible and complex, deepening the threat landscape. The findings underscore the need to integrate cybersecurity into comprehensive disaster risk management strategies. Policymakers, institutions, and businesses must adopt a forward-looking approach—emphasising continuous risk evaluation, resilient digital infrastructure, and collaboration across sectors. To protect economies from escalating cyber threats, adaptive regulations and anticipatory defences are no longer optional—they\u27re essential
University Students’ Perception, Knowledge, and Preparedness of Flood Disaster Risk Management in Assam (India)
Get PDFAssam is a state in India that is highly vulnerable to floods. This study aims to evaluate flood disaster risk perception, knowledge, and preparedness among university students in Assam. A quantitative survey was conducted through an online questionnaire. A total of 50 samples (25 PhD, 25 postgraduate) were collected. Participants were asked about their perceptions of flood risk, knowledge, and preparedness regarding flood disaster risk management. By using the structured questionnaire and Pearson\u27s Chi-Square test to determine the statistical significance of differences between the university students. The finding shows that 96% admit that riverine communities are vulnerable to floods. Although 78% of households need emergency plans, only 4% practice evacuation drills. Eighty-four per cent of PhD students exhibit a higher risk perception of interruption in essential services during a flood. Overall, 62% were aware of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). At most, 28% understood district-level flood management systems. Awareness of ASDMA notably correlated with trust in timely warnings (52% aware and 48% unaware). Despite 86% of respondents monitoring weather alerts, 82% were unaware of community warning signals, and 56% had an unavailability of emergency contacts. The study highlights an analytical gap between theoretical awareness and practical preparedness among university students in Assam. The findings emphasise the need to integrate disaster drills into academic curricula, strengthen community-institutional partnerships, and develop localised educational tools to bridge this gap. These strategies are necessary for enhancing resilience in flood-prone regions of Assam, establishing knowledge, and promoting actionable preparedness
From Vulnerability to Resilience: A Systematic Review of Odisha\u27s Integrated Approach to Disaster Risk Reduction
Get PDFOdisha, a coastal state in India, has transformed its disaster management framework from a reactive model to a proactive, resilience-centred approach in response to frequent cyclones, floods, and climate-related hazards. This shift, necessitated by the need to protect lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods, gained momentum after the catastrophic 1999 Super Cyclone, which claimed over 10,000 lives and exposed critical gaps in preparedness. Over the past two decades, Odisha’s reforms have significantly reduced fatalities through improved policies, infrastructure, and community engagement. This review examines Odisha’s evolution in disaster governance from 1999 to 2024, analysing key initiatives such as the establishment of the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), early warning systems, cyclone shelters, and evacuation plans. Using the PRISMA framework, the study evaluates 40 peer-reviewed articles, reports, and policy documents to assess the impact of these measures. Despite progress, challenges remain, including last-mile connectivity in disaster warnings—particularly for remote tribal communities—and the growing threats posed by rising sea levels and intensifying cyclones. Nature-based solutions, such as mangrove restoration, and community-driven programs like Odisha’s Tsunami Ready initiative (involving 26 villages) offer scalable strategies for enhancing resilience. These experiences provide valuable lessons for other vulnerable regions, such as Indonesia and the Philippines. Moving forward, prioritising technological integration, decentralised governance, and sustainable recovery strategies will be crucial for strengthening Odisha’s long-term climate resilience
Domestic Hiking Tourism for Post-COVID Recovery and Transformation
Get PDFThe COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted global tourism, necessitating adaptive recovery strategies. This study explores the role of domestic hiking tourism in Ethiopia as a resilience mechanism for post-pandemic recovery and transformation. Using a qualitative case study approach, interviews were conducted with 16 hiking organisers in Addis Ababa to assess the factors contributing to the growth of hiking tourism, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and its potential as a catalyst for tourism recovery. Findings indicate that shifting travel preferences, increased health awareness, the influence of digital media, and emerging government initiatives have fueled the rise of hiking tourism. However, regulatory gaps, enforcement of health protocols, and political instability remain key challenges. Despite these obstacles, domestic hiking tourism has played a crucial role in revitalising the tourism industry, fostering community engagement, and promoting local economic development. This study highlights the importance of policy support, infrastructure investment, and regulatory frameworks in sustaining Ethiopia’s growing hiking tourism sector as a long-term recovery strategy
The Role of Spatial Analysis in Notifiable Disease Monitoring and Health Risk Management: A Case Study of Constantine
Get PDFThe study aims to enhance understanding of the distribution of notifiable diseases using maps created with ArcGIS in Constantine. Over six years, it focused on the prevalence rates of waterborne diseases and zoonoses (e.g., tuberculosis, meningitis, and COVID-19). A database was created for each municipality using official data, which was processed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel and integrated into a geographic information system (GIS). The maps revealed a high prevalence of diseases in the state\u27s centre, particularly in the municipalities of Constantine, El Khroub, Didouche, and Mourad. The analysis also highlighted a positive relationship between the increase in disease cases and population density, emphasising the critical role of urbanisation in disease spread. Furthermore, seasonal variations were observed in the distribution of certain diseases, indicating that environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, influence disease outbreaks. As a result of this study, the maps have demonstrated a fundamental role in monitoring diseases and their development, offering valuable insights for public health surveillance and policy formulation. By visualising trends and patterns, these maps can support decision-making processes to manage health risks better and allocate resources effectively in the region
Female Gender Empowerment, Individualism, Collectivism, and Resilience: A Comparative Study in the Context of Disaster Risk Management
Get PDFThe paper examines the relationship between female gender empowerment, societal ideologies (individualism and collectivism), and disaster resilience. It examines whether higher female empowerment is correlated with greater individualism and whether male empowerment aligns with collectivist values. Additionally, it evaluates how these ideological orientations influence societal resilience in disaster contexts. Utilising data from the Global Gender Gap Report, Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions, and the UNDRR Resilience Index, this study employs Pearson’s correlation analysis to determine relationships between gender empowerment and ideology. At the same time, multiple regression modelling assesses their impact on disaster resilience. Findings reveal a strong correlation between female empowerment and individualism, as well as between male empowerment and collectivism. Regression results indicate that individualism has a negative influence on resilience, while collectivism enhances resilience. These results suggest that collectivist societies, often characterised as male-dominated, may provide stronger structural support for disaster risk management, whereas individualistic societies linked to female empowerment may face challenges in coordinating disaster responses. The findings underscore the need for policies that integrate both individualistic and collectivist strengths to enhance global disaster response and sustainable development
Integrating Disability into Disaster Management Education in India: A Critical Review
Get PDFChildren with Special Needs (CwSN) are at heightened risk during disasters due to inadequate disaster management provisions for them. Their disabilities make them particularly vulnerable when disaster protections are inadequate or when injured children receive improper treatment. This further hinders their educational development. Furthermore, the lack of fully disability-inclusive infrastructure and educational facilities in schools makes them vulnerable to disasters, as they face cognitive and physical barriers. This study investigates the involvement of CwSN in disaster management, the programmes and global efforts to include them, the policies that incorporate them, and the role of socio-economic and psychological factors in their education. This study finds that there is limited data available on CwSN and their disaster management education, thereby highlighting gaps in current disaster management educational practices for CwSN. It further concluded that there is a lack of proper disability-inclusive provisions for CwSN to support them in disaster management; thus, there is an urgent need to provide CwSN with adequate disaster management educational provisions in emergencies. It also suggests incorporating disability-specific disaster management strategies into disaster management education to reduce the risk of disasters and promote global cooperation in building resilient communities that protect and include CwSN during emergencies