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 #26 “An Introduction to Disaster Ethics”

Guest:

  • Dr. Lauren Traczykowski [Aston University, United Kingdom]

Summary:

This podcast explored the emerging discipline of disaster ethics, examining how ethical principles apply in crisis situations such as natural hazards, pandemics, and political instability. The conversation highlighted the complexity of ethical decision-making during disasters, where normal frameworks must adapt to rapidly changing circumstances, limited resources, and high stakes.
One key theme was the importance of distinguishing between disasters and crises. While disasters are often triggered by specific events (like earthquakes or floods), crises—such as climate change or war—result from ongoing, layered conditions. However, both challenges how ethical decisions are made, especially when professional roles, resource constraints, and societal vulnerabilities are involved.
Disasters reveal a society’s ethical priorities. Using the formula “risk = hazard + vulnerability,” the discussion emphasised that disasters are shaped not just by natural events but by underlying social inequalities. The impact of a disaster depends on the community’s infrastructure, social support systems, and capacity to respond—raising questions about justice, fairness, and preparedness.
The discussion stressed the need for ethical coordination across all professions involved in disaster response—not only first responders or medical staff, but also teachers, utility workers, and civil servants. Each profession may follow different ethical frameworks (duty-based vs. consequence-based) and aligning them requires shared understanding rather than judgment.
Responsibility was explored at multiple levels. National governments are typically seen as the primary duty-bearers due to their sovereign authority, but when states are unwilling or unable to act, the international community may have a moral obligation to step in. This raises questions about humanitarian aid, disaster colonialism, and the ethics of intervention.
Ultimately, the podcast called for more structured, inclusive preparedness planning and recognised that justice and fairness should guide disaster ethics just as they do in stable times—while adapting to the realities on the ground.

Co-Host:

  • Dr. Mark Ashley Parry [Northumbria University, United Kingdom]
  • Dr. Haris Rahadianto [Lund University, Sweden]
Music: “Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.