Evaluating the Role of NGOs in Community-Based Earthquake Preparedness: A Systematic Review of Global Practices

Community-based preparedness is a critical component of effective disaster risk reduction, particularly in regions vulnerable to earthquakes. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have emerged as key actors in facilitating resilience-building efforts at the grassroots level. This systematic review aims to evaluate the strategic role of NGOs in enhancing community preparedness for earthquake disasters, focusing on global practices and interventions. The review analyzed peer-reviewed journal articles, reports, and case studies published between 2000 and 2024, sourced from major databases including Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A total of 42 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were examined to identify common strategies, challenges, and outcomes associated with NGO-led preparedness initiatives. The findings highlight the pivotal contributions of NGOs in areas such as risk communication, community training, early warning dissemination, and the integration of local knowledge in preparedness planning. Moreover, successful programs were often characterized by participatory approaches, long-term community engagement, and collaboration with government institutions. However, the review also identifies persistent challenges, including limited funding, coordination issues, and lack of standardized evaluation metrics. This study underscores the importance of strategic NGO involvement in disaster preparedness and provides policy-relevant insights for stakeholders aiming to strengthen community resilience against seismic hazards. By synthesizing diverse global experiences, this review contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of how NGOs can effectively support earthquake-prone communities in preparing for future disasters.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs); Community-Based Preparedness; Earthquake

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