2.2. Role of DPRI in Disaster Research

In fact, when we talk about the GADRI, first of all this has become a platform for all the academic institutes who are doing the research and disaster recovery and disaster related research, so it is a platform for all these institutes to come together and share the knowledge and inform the policy practice and also the theory. So, in that way this is one of the important platform.

Now, the DPRI is taking an intense effort to bring all these researchers together so that how we can advocate the DRR practices in a much better way.

The Global Alliance of Disaster Research Institutes (GADRI) serves as a collaborative platform for academic institutions focused on disaster research. This collaboration allows for the sharing of knowledge, which can influence policy and practice in disaster recovery. DPRI (Disaster Prevention Research Institute) actively works within this framework, helping to coordinate efforts among researchers to promote effective disaster risk reduction (DRR) measures.

Imagine GADRI as a conference where various chefs (researchers) from around the world come together to share their unique recipes (knowledge) about making delicious and safe food (disaster recovery). The DPRI acts like the head chef, making sure all chefs collaborate well, allowing them to learn from each other and improve their dishes (DRR practices).

So, the purpose and objectives of this session were to identify how research on social construction of risks can be used for effective DRR. To consider how the understanding of risk can be better circulated and discussed among stakeholders to reach a shared recognition of the social dimension of risk.

During the GADRI summit, discussions aimed to explore how understanding the social aspects of disaster risk can enhance disaster risk reduction. By analyzing how different communities perceive risks, researchers can develop more tailored and effective DRR strategies. Discussing these ideas among stakeholders helps to create a shared understanding, which is critical for collaborative disaster management.

Think of a neighborhood where people have varying views on flood risks. If they hold a community meeting (the summit) to share their experiences and knowledge about past floods, they can develop a more comprehensive plan to prepare for future floods together. Everyone’s input helps build a stronger understanding of the risks involved.

So we also got key questions that are to be addressed. To what extent are hazards, risks, and disasters within society currently well known? How can the social construction of risks be effective for DRR? And how can an improved understanding of risk be communicated around varying DRR stakeholders?

The summit focused on critical questions that guide disaster research. These questions help researchers to evaluate how well society understands the hazards and risks it faces. Additionally, they encourage exploration of how the social perception of these risks can be utilized effectively in disaster risk reduction strategies, along with finding better ways to communicate this knowledge among different stakeholders involved in disaster management.

Imagine a classroom where students are discussing climate change. Some students might know a lot about it while others may not. The teacher (the researcher) needs to gauge what the students understand and then figure out effective ways to explain complex concepts to everyone. This way, the whole class can engage meaningfully with the topic.

So, we are collecting different viewpoints from different stakeholders, and then we try to compile in this one simple diagram a conceptual understanding. Number one context of risk, when we say context of risk itself has a different meaning especially the people living on the edge.

Through discussions with various stakeholders, researchers aim to develop a conceptual diagram that illustrates the diverse perspectives on risk. The 'context of risk' varies based on community experiences, especially among those who are more vulnerable, such as people living in disaster-prone areas. This approach underscores the importance of tailoring risk management practices to the specific circumstances of different communities.

Consider the different interpretations of traffic safety in urban and rural areas. People in cities might focus on pedestrian safety, while those in rural areas may be more concerned about wildlife crossing roads. By understanding these contexts, planners can create more effective safety campaigns tailored to each community’s unique needs.

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