This article builds on previous work that has sought to link assemblage theory with the study of disaster risk. Specifically, we propose that the existing idea of a ‘disaster risk management assemblage’ can be used in two ways. The first is an overall approach to analysing disaster risk. The second is to conceptualise disaster risk management assemblages as objects of study. These are the assemblages, or apparatuses, that seek to manage – but also create – disasters-in-the-making. We go on to explore how these ideas can be used in empirical research and how they can help us to imagine doing research differently.

No abstract

The Global Alliance of Disaster Research Institutes held its 3rd Global Summit of Research Institutes for Disaster Risk Reduction at the Disaster PreventionResearch Institute, Kyoto University, Japan, 19-21 March, 2017. The Global Alliance seeks to contribute to enhancing disaster risk reduction (DRR) and disaster resilience through the collaboration of research organizations around the world. The summit aim was to expand the platform for bridging science and policy making by evaluating the evidence base needed to meet the expected outcomes and actions of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and its Science and Technology Roadmap. The summit reflected the international nature of collaborative research and action. A pre-conference questionnaire filled out by Global Alliance members identified 323 research projects that are indicative of current research. These were categorized to support seven parallel discussion sessions related to the Sendai Framework priorities for action. Four discussion sessions focused on research that aims to deepen the understanding of disaster risks. Three cross-cutting sessions focused on research that is aimed at the priorities for action on governance, resilience, and recovery. Discussion summaries were presented in plenary sessions in support of outcomes for widely enhancing the science and policy of DRR.