From Capability Trap to Effective Disaster Risk Management Capacity: What Can Governments, Communities, and Donors Do?

Abstract

This chapter focuses on understanding what the future holds for disaster risk management. The role of governments and communities in developing effective disaster risk management capacity is explored along with recommendations. The chapter focuses on two interrelated topics. First, do donors and international aid have a role to play? Second, how much capacity development for disaster management is actually about making the development happen in a right manner? This research has helped in conceptualizing how capacity building takes place and what factors are important for its effectiveness and sustainability at a local level. With a better understanding of determinants of capacity development, scarce resources can be effectively allocated. The findings will be useful in designing and implementing effective disaster risk mitigation programs that keep people and their assets safe from disasters, relying on better engagement with community, and supporting the critical role of change agents. This final chapter also discusses some methodological limitations and offers directions for future research.