ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on disaster policies and implementation in Turkey. Disaster regulations have traditionally been adopted in the wake of disasters, rather than adopting proactive measures before they occur. Various risk-reducing strategies have traditionally focused on mitigating seismic risk. Despite the long tradition of developing disaster management policies and legislation to reduce disaster risk, Turkish disaster mitigation, preparedness, and response have been perceived as ineffective. Especially, the lack of coordination and cooperation, a predominant focus on response activities compared to preparedness and planning activities, and having an overly centralised structure that discourages grass roots and non-governmental organisations’ participation usually come to the fore.
