Disaster risk management and capacity building in prevention: systematic review of public policies in Andean countries

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17247469

Abstract

Disaster risk management (DRM) has become a global and regional priority, especially in Andean countries exposed to geological and climatic hazards. This article analyzes public policies aimed at prevention and identifies approaches, gaps, and opportunities to strengthen technical, institutional, and community capacities in the face of disasters. The study adopts a qualitative approach, based on a systematic review under the PRISMA protocol, focusing on public policies on risk management and skills training in Andean countries. A total of 842 records from Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO were reviewed; after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 25 studies were selected for analysis. The findings show that risk management policies in the region prioritize vulnerability reduction and institutional capacity building through regulatory frameworks, inter-institutional coordination, community participation, and international cooperation. Prevention training combines education and community action, achieving technical and operational advances whose sustainability depends on investment and institutional stability. It is concluded that risk management policies in Andean countries face regulatory gaps, budgetary constraints, a shortage of technical personnel, and inconsistent inter-institutional coordination. In addition, community participation is insufficient and evaluation lacks clear indicators. Overcoming these limitations requires integrated frameworks, stable financing, ongoing monitoring, and greater technical and institutional strengthening.

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References

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Published

2025-10-01

Issue

Section

Communication of Science: Bibliometrics and systematic reviews.

How to Cite

Disaster risk management and capacity building in prevention: systematic review of public policies in Andean countries. (2025). InveCom Journal, 6(3), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17247469