Evaluating the network of stakeholders in Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems for multiple hazards amidst biological outbreaks: Sri Lanka as a case in point

Ravindu Jayasekara; Chandana Siriwardana; Dilanthi Amaratunga; Richard Haigh

doi:10.1016/j.pdisas.2022.100228

Evaluating the network of stakeholders in Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems for multiple hazards amidst biological outbreaks: Sri Lanka as a case in point

Prog Disaster Sci. 2022 Apr:14:100228. doi: 10.1016/j.pdisas.2022.100228. Epub 2022 Apr 4.

Authors

Ravindu Jayasekara¹, Chandana Siriwardana¹, Dilanthi Amaratunga², Richard Haigh²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka.
² Global Disaster Resilience Centre, University of Huddersfield, UK.

Abstract

Synergized impacts of simultaneous hazards amidst COVID-19 have called for the need for highly collaborative multi-sectoral approaches for disaster preparedness planning. In such a context, this study aims at evaluating the network of stakeholders in the National Early Warning System of Sri Lanka during preparedness planning. Social Network Analysis was used to visualise the network of stakeholders for selected hazard scenarios. Furthermore, a series of key informant interviews were conducted focusing on disaster preparedness planning during the recent multiple hazard scenarios. The findings highlight the need for a framework to guide the stakeholder coordination in preparedness planning for multiple hazards.

Keywords: COVID-19; Multi-Hazard Early Warning; Multi-sectoral approach; Simultaneous hazards; Systemic risk.