Comparative Analysis of Disaster Risk Management Systems in Germany, USA, Russia and China

Abstract

The uniqueness of each system stems from the fact that the risks of disasters are specific and that their presence and manifestation are not universal and the same for every country. Just as no country is the same in all other segments, their disaster risk management systems are unequal. The paper describes the systems in four different countries, through observation and comparison of four areas of activity that are implemented in dealing with disasters. First of all, in the paper, the legal basis and institutional frameworks on which these systems rest in each of the countries were considered – starting from the international level and guidelines given at international conferences, to all by-laws and local disaster activity plans. It was considered how each of the states implements risk mitigation activities and how it increases preparedness for them. When the system recognizes risks, their probability and the frequency of their occurrence, activities are planned to prepare the country and every individual in it for a potentially unwanted event. Differences in the ways of mitigating risks and preparing all elements of the system and protected values for disasters are presented. The third element of action in the event of disasters concerns the response. In this segment, questions are raised regarding institutional solutions in the system, division of responsibilities, the priority of response and mobilization of resources at all levels. The last phase, the one that occurs after the disaster, and that is the recovery from it, depends on the reaction. In the paper, it was discussed how in the end, when a disaster occurs and when damage to the population, environment, material and other goods occurred, how each of the states implements reconstruction, i.e. how it recovers - whether that recovery was previously well planned or whether ad hoc solutions are applied.

In-Depth Analysis of Disaster (Risk) Management System in Serbia: A Critical Examination of Systemic Strengths and Weaknesses

“…Within this context, it becomes evident that Serbia is not shielded from disaster risks and confronts a unique array of challenges [26]. Safeguarding citizen safety, preserving assets and infrastructure, and ensuring business continuity emerge as pivotal priorities demanding the establishment of a robust, well-coordinated disaster risk management framework [27][28][29][30].…”

Empowering the Regional Network of Experts for Disaster Risk Management in the Western Balkans by the Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management

“…The Western Balkans region faces persistent challenges related to disaster risk management, characterized by a complex interplay of natural hazards, inadequate infrastructure, and limited institutional capacities [1][2][3][4][5][6]. The Southeast European countries, constituting the Western Balkans, are persistently vulnerable to an array of disasters, ranging from earthquakes and floods to snowstorms, droughts, and forest fires [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17].…”

“…In the Western Balkans, the lack of a dedicated network of experts in disaster risk management has significant repercussions for both the efficiency and coordination of handling potential hazards. Establishing such a network is vital for numerous reasons [1][2][3]. Firstly, without this network, there's Disclaimer/Publisher's Note: The statements, opinions, and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s).…”

“…Improved coordination at the interstate level is essential for handling risks that often surpass national borders. Disasters do not respect geopolitical boundaries, and a network that facilitates cross-border collaboration ensures a more effective response to challenges that could affect multiple countries at once [1][2][3][4][5][6]. This interconnectedness strengthens regional resilience by leveraging the collective expertise and resources of neighbouring nations.…”