Disaster risk in a time of eroding human rights: How shrinking civic space and 'legal' injustice undermine inclusive DRR

This report examines how the erosion of human rights is becoming a major driver of disaster risk. It argues that restrictions on rights, through shrinking civic space, discriminatory laws, or digital surveillance, weaken the systems designed to protect people before, during, and after crises. Rather than existing alongside disaster risk, the weakening of rights actively shapes who is exposed, who is protected, and who is left behind.

The analysis draws on global policy frameworks, legal and civic trends, and secondary literature. It highlights a growing recognition of rights-based approaches in disaster risk reduction (DRR), but also shows that these commitments are rarely embedded in operational tools, funding models, or programme delivery. In many countries, civic restrictions are making it harder for communities (especially those already at risk) to organise, contribute to preparedness planning, or access emergency support. Discriminatory laws and legal invisibility further marginalise specific groups, limiting access to services and creating barriers to recovery. The increasing use of digital surveillance and automated decision-making adds new risks, particularly where these technologies lack transparency, accountability, or safeguards against bias.