What Are the Obstacles in the Recovery Process Considering the Role of Actors? The Case of the Kahramanmaraş Earthquake in Turkey

Abstract

The earthquakes centred in Kahramanmaraş on 6 February 2023 revealed profound structural and institutional vulnerabilities in Turkey’s disaster management system. This study explores the post-disaster recovery efforts in Hatay and Adıyaman, focusing on the difficulties encountered by central and local governments, NGOs, international organisations, and community-based actors. Employing qualitative content analysis, the research demonstrates that the highly centralised governance structure restricts local adaptability and participation, resulting in spatial injustices and widespread institutional distrust. The findings underscore that recovery must extend beyond technical reconstruction and be guided by inclusive, multi-actor, and transparent governance approaches. Strengthening local institutional capacity and ensuring the meaningful integration of civil society and diverse actors into the recovery process are essential for building long-term resilience.