Crisis Management Days

How culture and cultural practices contribute to disaster risk reduction in the local community

Jadranka Dujić Frlan

Zagreb County

Keywords: local community, culture, NGO, risk disaster

Abstract

Cultural practices and amateur cultural associations play a crucial role in reducing disaster risk within local communities. They strengthen social cohesion and solidarity, enabling a faster and more effective response in crisis situations. Cultural activities transmit traditional knowledge on resilience to natural and social challenges and raise awareness of risks and the importance of prevention through artistic expression. Additionally, cultural organizations often mobilize volunteers and resources necessary for crisis response and serve as intermediaries between institutions and citizens. After disasters, culture aids in the psychological recovery of the population by providing a space for expression and collective community renewal. Cultural centers and spaces can also serve as temporary shelters or logistical hubs for aid distribution. Active citizen participation in civil society organizations focused on culture requires continuous support from local governance structures and adequate funding for their work. Integrating cultural initiatives into disaster management strategies enhances the resilience of local communities and contributes to long-term sustainable development and the strengthening of social cohesion.