Welcome to the IDRiM Podcast

We are in a rapidly evolving world, meaning that the need for platforms that engage, educate, and empower society has never been more apparent. A podcast tailored to the interests and concerns of our community not only serves as a beacon of information but also fosters a sense of belonging and understanding among its listeners. By delving into diverse topics ranging from climate change and meteorological disasters to Natech disasters and terrorism, such a podcast has the potential to become a powerful tool for positive social change. In this age of digital connectivity, where voices from all corners of society yearn to be heard, the creation of a podcast offers an unparalleled opportunity to amplify junior researchers’ voices, speak meaningful dialogue, and inspire collective action.

This podcast series is going to run in a way that every Tuesday, there will be a new episode focusing on different aspects of the disaster, whether it be a recap of this month, whether it be about what we do like a documentary episode, whether it be asking students to see research about their career development, or even just asking PhD students who have just graduated to their research.

Title: IDRiM Podcast #24 “The Impact of Disasters on LGBTQIA+ Communities: A Global Perspective. Part 1.”

Guest:

  • Leo Goldsmith (Yale University, United States)
  • Vanessa Raditz (University of Georgia, United States)

Summary:

This episode focused on the global experiences of LGBTQ+ communities in the context of disasters and climate change, featuring perspectives from researchers working in the U.S. The discussion highlighted the growing field of queer climate justice and the urgent need to address how disasters uniquely affect LGBTQ+ individuals.
Despite assumptions that LGBTQ+ rights are well protected in places like the United States, significant disparities remain. Disasters often intensify pre-existing vulnerabilities such as homelessness, poor access to healthcare, social isolation, and economic insecurity. The lack of recognition for LGBTQ+ families and the reliance on discriminatory faith-based relief organisations further exclude individuals during crises. Additionally, some U.S. states allow healthcare providers to deny treatment based on sexual or gender identity, a practice that can be life-threatening during emergencies.
Structural issues like anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and discriminatory social attitudes were identified as compounding risk factors. These laws not only restrict healthcare and education access but also influence displacement patterns and exacerbate the marginalisation of LGBTQ+ people during disasters. Researchers underscored how disaster responses often overlook these vulnerabilities due to poor data collection and a general lack of awareness within official systems.
Historically, events like the HIV/AIDS crisis continue to shape stigma and responses to newer health threats like Mpox. Anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric has often been weaponised for political purposes, reinforcing social exclusion during times of crisis. The need for better representation, inclusive disaster policies, and the incorporation of sexual and gender diversity in international frameworks like the Sendai Framework was emphasised.
The conversation concluded with calls for deeper historical understanding, improved data collection, and more inclusive, justice-oriented approaches to disaster risk reduction that acknowledge the complex realities faced by LGBTQ+ communities around the world.

Host:

  • Mr. Jeisson Orlando Garcia (Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres, Colombia)
  • Dr. Mark Ashley Parry (Northumbria University, United Kingdom)
Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.