The Reality of The State's Responsibility for Victims of Natural Disasters in The Perspective of Human Rights

Abstract

This study critically examines the state's role in fulfilling its responsibilities towards victims of natural disasters from a human rights perspective. It aims to analyze the nature of these responsibilities, their conceptual framework, and the factors influencing their effective implementation. Using a philosophical approach alongside qualitative research methods like interviews and direct observations, the study seeks to deepen understanding of how state actions intersect with humanitarian principles. Key findings emphasize the importance of grounding state responsibilities in humanitarian values to uphold human rights and preserve the dignity of affected individuals. This perspective is particularly relevant in Indonesia, where Pancasila principles underscore the state's role in disaster response and recovery. Despite these principles, the study identifies persistent challenges such as inadequate disaster mitigation policies, insufficient community protection measures, and complexities in inter-governmental coordination. To enhance the implementation of state responsibilities in disaster management, several recommendations are proposed. Firstly, integrating humanitarian considerations into criteria for determining national disaster status is essential to prioritize human rights in decision-making. Secondly, regional governments should allocate resources in their budget planning for both proactive disaster prevention and effective post-disaster response tailored to local vulnerabilities. Additionally, the study advocates for improved disaster mitigation policies, including comprehensive public education on disaster impacts, strict building regulations, and robust disaster risk zoning frameworks. Addressing these recommendations can align state actions with humanitarian principles, thereby improving the protection and well-being of communities affected by natural disasters.