Reduction of risks and sustainable development at the municipal level: relationships between institutional factors, decisions, and results

Abstract

This study analyzes the role of institutional contexts and factors in local government decisions to respond to perceived risks of natural disasters, climate change, and adaptation. With the support of literature, a framework, and four case studies, the study examines effects that institutional factors may have on local government decisions with regard to critical infrastructures and vulnerability mitigation for disaster risks reduction (DRR). The results suggest that it is necessary to progress towards a multi-systemic perspective on the configuration of institutional conditions that shape decisions to support the efforts of municipal governments in disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.