An Introduction to Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction

‘Shaun Grech and Jorg Weber’s latest book is likely to become a go-to reference for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationships between disability and disaster risk reduction. It provides a wide array of perspectives from both scholars and practitioners whose work and experiences cover a large range of personal and environmental circumstances across diverse locations around the world. This diversity of voices allows to further understand the role of intersectional and contextual factors in shaping people’s appreciation and encounters of what we call disaster. An outstanding contribution to our field of scholarship and practice for sure.’

JC Gaillard, Professor of Geography, University of Auckland

‘This book represents an important addition to the global health and international development literature. Responding effectively to disasters is a pressing concern. But the 1.6 billion people worldwide who live with a disability have only recently begun to be included in such responses. And too often, this inclusion remains a low priority. In this important volume, Grech and Weber have brought together some of the world’s leading experts in Disaster Risk Reduction and Disability to provide nuanced and thoughtful insight into the range of issues and responses that need to be considered to ensure equal and effective inclusion for people with disabilities in times of emergency and disaster. As such, it should be required reading for all working in disaster risk reduction, whether it be in policy, practice or research.’

Nora Ellen Groce, PhD Director, International Disability Research Centre, University College London