Law embodies culture and formalises its norms while culture conditions, promotes or constrains the adoption of legal rules

Nafziger, Paterson and Renteln (2010) vividly summarize the relationship between law and culture as follows: law embodies culture and formalises its norms. Law promotes, protects, conditions, and limits cultural attributes and expressions. Law harmonises cross-cultural differences, confirms cultural rights, and establishes international standards. Culture reinforces legal rules. Culture conditions and constrains the adoption, interpretation, and vitality of legal rules. Cultural expressions and symbols promote legal relationships.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Rule of law, Customs/traditions/rituals, Norms/values

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

Disaster Phases: Response

Types of Actors Concerned: Non-active citizens, Government

Recommendations:

• Employ an overarching rights-based approach in disaster policies and operations