Multi-Hazard Vulnerability and Resilience Building - Chapter 21: Foundation of indigenous knowledge theory for disaster risk reduction

Indigenous knowledge practiced by indigenous communities around the world plays an important role in reducing disaster risk in their community through their understanding of nature and context. This conceptual study presents key areas that serve as the foundation for developing a systematic study to understand the contribution of indigenous knowledge in DRR by contextualizing how the integration of indigenous practice and scientific knowledge of DRR can support development organizations and policymakers in planning effective and practical activities to mitigate and manage disaster risk in indigenous communities. This study can be taken as a reference by relevant authorities in providing ample space to the indigenous knowledge and practices to ensure disaster mitigation strategies align with the context of the indigenous communities. Thus, this conceptual article argues that indigenous knowledge can assist in becoming more aware of disaster risks, implementing a successful local disaster management plan, and conducting scientific research and training.