The role of local governments in disaster risk reduction: Kahramanmaraş case

This study examines the role of local governments in disaster management in Turkey, considering the devastating social, economic, and physical impacts of disasters. Using the Kahramanmaraş example, it explores the roles and responsibilities of local governments in disaster management processes and assesses the effectiveness of the existing disaster management system in Turkey. Additionally, successful disaster management practices from countries such as the United States, Japan, Canada, Germany, and France are presented, and the integration of these practices into Turkey's local government framework is discussed. Following the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes, fieldwork was conducted to assess the preparedness of municipalities in Kahramanmaraş through surveys and on-site evaluations. This assessment identified current capacities, challenges, and areas for improvement. The study provides recommendations for enhancing the disaster management capacities of local governments in Turkey.