A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia

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Prof. Dr. Vladimir M. Cvetković is recognized as a leading expert in Disaster Risk Management, with a focus on Risk Reduction, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery. He has authored over 300 scientific papers published in domestic and international journals and proceedings, as well as 30 books.

A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia

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International Journal of Disaster Risk Management

A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia

Authors

  • Anja BeliScientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Ser-bia
  • Renate RennerSafety and Disaster Studies, Chair of Thermal Processing Technology, Department of Environmental and Energy Process Engineering, Technical University of Leoben, Austria
  • Vladimir M. CvetkovićThe University of Belgrade, Faculty of Security Studies, Gospodara Vučića 50, Belgrade, Serbiahttp://orcid.org/0000-0002-3450-0658
  • Aleksandar IvanovFaculty of Security—Skopje, University St. Kliment Ohridski Bitola, 7000 Bitola, North Macedonia
  • Jasmina GačićDepartment of Disaster Management and Environmental Security, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vucica 50, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18485/ijdrm.2025.7.1.25

Keywords:

disaster risk management, strenghts, weaknesses, resilience, regional collaboration, institutional capacities, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Serbia

Abstract

This study examines disaster risk management systems in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania, highlighting their distinct strengths and weaknesses while drawing comparisons to Serbia’s framework. The research underscores the growing urgency of disaster risk management in addressing challenges posed by natural and man-made (technological) hazards, which are further aggravated by climate change, globalisation, and socio-economic shifts. The study identifies best practices alongside systemic weaknesses by assessing the normative, institutional, and strategic frameworks of these countries. Key strengths include comprehensive legal systems, robust international partnerships, and sophisticated early warning mechanisms. However, these strengths are counterbalanced by limited local capacity, fragmented institutional coordination, and inadequate public awareness. The analysis highlights the potential for regional cooperation through a comparative lens, emphasising the importance of engaging local communities, enhancing early warning technologies, and aligning with global disaster management standards. The findings offer valuable insights into ongoing discussions about constructing resilient societies, providing practical recommendations to enhance disaster risk management systems across Southeastern Europe.

Beli, A., Renner, R., Cvetković, V. M., Ivanov, A., & Gačić, J. (2025). A Cross-National Study of Disaster Risk Management: Strengths and Weaknesses in Bulgaria, Romania, and Albania with Reflections on Serbia. International Journal of Disaster Risk Management, 7(1), 431–460. https://doi.org/10.18485/ijdrm.2025.7.1.25