Post-Disaster Population Mobility: Considerations for the February 2023 Earthquakes in Türkiye

Abstract

The February 6, 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye caused immense destruction, displacing millions and highlighting the importance of understanding post-disaster mobility. This study examines the socio-economic and environmental drivers of population flows after the disaster, using Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) to analyse data from receiving cities. Key variables include GDP per capita, unemployment, education, population density, and climate conditions. Findings show that displaced populations mostly relocated to nearby, less-affected cities rather than distant western regions. This shift reveals the critical need for targeted policies addressing infrastructure, employment, and social integration. Unplanned relocation can worsen inequality and deepen socio-economic divides. The study underscores the importance of integrating mobility data into disaster recovery planning, emphasising equitable, long-term strategies that enhance resilience and reduce vulnerability in both affected and receiving areas.