Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Disaster and Risk, cilt.8, sa.3, ss.1287-1303, 2025 (Scopus, TRDizin)
In recent years, disasters have evolved into complex and interconnected crises. Natural disasters, which deepen socio-economic problems, have the potential to cause long-term and structural threats in addition to their consequences such as loss of life and property. Therefore, it is essential to provide a broader perspective to disaster management. This study aims to determine whether natural disasters are defined as a national security risk in Türkiye. The theoretical framework is based on the theoretical approach of the Copenhagen School, which broadens and deepens the framework of the concept of security. Accordingly, the security paradigm, which has transformed to emphasize the protection of the individual, society and the environment, should also be centralized in disaster management policies. The research was designed qualitatively through content analysis. In the study, a total of 484 action statements related to earthquake response included in the Disaster Risk Reduction Plan of Türkiye (TARAP), Disaster Response Plan of Türkiye (TAMP), and National Earthquake Strategy and Action Plan (UDSEP) produced by AFAD and in effect at the time of the study were coded using thematic analysis. It was understood that 88% of these (425) reflected traditional earthquake risks, while 12% (59) were associated with national security risks in connection with the four categories defined (infrastructure destruction, superstructure damage, economic loss, public order). Accordingly, based on the documents examined, it was found that earthquake management processes in Türkiye are not directly and systematically linked to national security. This situation limits Türkiye’s ability to develop a sustainable and comprehensive national security strategy against natural disasters. Accordingly, the importance of perceiving the destructive effects of natural disasters at the structural level as an existential risk from a national security perspective is explained. Furthermore, the design of the integrated disaster management model has been criticized, with emphasis placed on redesigning it in a hierarchical order by placing the national security approach at its core.