Review on Japanese assistance of community-based management for flood disaster

It is widely recognized that a community plays a crucial role in managing disaster risks. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is shifting its approach from engineering-oriented approaches to comprehensive ones which include community-based disaster management (CBDM). However, the development assistant methods of CBDM have not been established. This study aims to propose the methods through reviewing JICA projects from a capacity development perspective. The community is described as the "main actor", while other organizations, such as governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations, are described as "supporting actors" to the communities. Various lessons were learned from the JICA projects: organizations' capacities should be assessed at a project designing stage; and focusing on the communities is required for activities. The study further recommends methods of project design to secure project sustainability, to take interactive risk communication between governments and communities, and to utilize Japanese technology and experience.