Theoretical, Institutional and Organizational Aspects of the Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction System: Towards a Deeper Understanding of Disaster Resilience in Serbia

Authors

  • Dalibor Milenkovic Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18485/fb_ijcss.2025.1.1.13

Keywords:

disaster resilience, integrated disaster management, BRIC methodology, MODERSI model, local communities

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of community disaster resilience through a multidisciplinary lens, emphasising the integration of theoretical, institutional, and organisational dimensions within the context of the Republic of Serbia. It explores the development of disaster management under the framework of the contemporary Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction System, which is grounded in the core principles of community resilience and supported by advanced methodologies tailored for this purpose. Particular attention is given to methodological tools for assessing resilience, including the Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC) and the Predictive Model of Community Disaster Resilience based on Social Identity Influences (MODERSI), the latter of which was developed explicitly for the Serbian context. The analysis suggests that social cohesion, institutional trust, and local capacities are critical determinants of resilience, whereas institutional shortcomings and systemic fragmentation constrain overall effectiveness. Although Serbia has a normative framework in place to enhance resilience through an integrated system, the operational mechanisms for implementation—especially at the local level—remain underdeveloped. The paper offers several recommendations: strengthening the institutional capacities of local governments, fostering citizen participation in planning processes, integrating traditional values with scientific approaches, and promoting a culture of prevention through education. The study concludes that resilience is a dynamic process requiring a balance among technical, social, and political factors. In the case of Serbia, long-term strategic investment in both community and institutional capacities is essential.

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Published

30.06.2025

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Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies

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International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies

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Copyright (c) 2025 Dalibor Milenkovic (Author)

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How to Cite

Milenkovic, D. (2025). Theoretical, Institutional and Organizational Aspects of the Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction System: Towards a Deeper Understanding of Disaster Resilience in Serbia. International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies, 1(1), 175-190. https://doi.org/10.18485/fb_ijcss.2025.1.1.13

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