Stop going around in circles: towards a reconceptualisation of disaster risk management phases

This paper aims to present an alternative conceptualisation of the Disaster Risk Management phases, in a way that can better factor in the underlying root causes that create differential levels of vulnerability. The “Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Helix” is presented as an alternative way of conceptualising the DRM phases.

Instead of linear stop–start activities, the DRM helix suggests that the actions of DRM must be understood in complex linked systems. Portraying such actions as a helix allows for a heightened understanding of DRM as multi-scalar, uneven, non-repetitive and unstable while still being an unceasing process. The helix furthermore allows for the termination of disaster risk if such risk can be completely reduced. It also allows for an expansion where disaster risk reduction efforts have failed. This alternative way of portraying DRM might lead to a more realistic application of DRM activities in policy and practice.