Community cohesion as an important cultural aspect in disasters

Despite the fact that there is a perceived loss of community cohesion in some areas, the large majority of participants related to community cohesion as a “tradition” – “in Malta, traditionally we are very close to one another, as we are very small, too” – and as a cultural aspect which has persisted over time.

Cultural Factors: Customs/traditions/rituals, Norms/values

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Response, Recovery

Recommendations:

• Develop guidelines for disaster practitioners that take into consideration the different needs of and approaches to different ethnical groups
• Foster social connectedness and the development of a strong sense of community, as these encourage citizens to help each other in disaster situations