Linkages in disasters: A perspective on migrants inclusivity in disaster risk reduction

Recent researches observed that certain groups in society are more prone than others to damages, losses, and sufferings in the context of hazards. Migrants are among the vulnerable populations during disasters. Over the changing times and evolving mobility of people, migrants emerge as a significant consideration in the area of disaster risk reduction. The 3^rd UNISDR World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR) in Sendai City, acknowledged migrants as essential stakeholders in reducing disaster risks. This paper particularly explores and analyses the migrants' social capital in facing and recovering from disasters. It primarily assumes that the available forms of connections (bonding, bridging and linking) inherent to migrants had a substantial contribution to their disaster response and recovery. The paper assessed the various forms of linkages available to migrants during disasters, focusing on the case of foreign residents during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Using combined detailed interviews and discussions, literature reviews and examinations of prefectural capital websites, the study conclude that: 1.) Linking social capital functions as agents of distributive and procedural justice, and 2.) Migrant inclusivity should not be limited to disaster mitigation and response but should include pre-disaster community involvement. This study reflects on the significance and challenges of enhancing migrants' social capital to facilitate more inclusive disaster risk reduction programs.