Stakeholder discourses on disaster risk reduction in Merapi: aligning local practices with the Sendai Framework and SDGs through Q methodology

Purpose – Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a central focus of international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for DRR and is closely linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the importance of reducing disaster risks through integrated and inclusive approaches. This study analyses stakeholder discourses on the implementation of these transnational DRR policies within the context of local practices in the Merapi volcanic area. Design/methodology/approach – This research employs Q methodology, combining Q-sort and follow-up interviews with 30 stakeholders including local residents, representatives from national and district governments, media and academics. Findings – The analysis revealed four key discourses: (1) the central role of local communities in DRR; (2) the value and effectiveness of traditional Early Warning Systems (EWS) in Merapi; (3) the importance of cross-regional collaboration among stakeholders and (4) the viability of reconstruction and rehabilitation over relocation in disaster prone areas, given the community’s strong economic and cultural ties to the land. Practical implications – The findings suggest that adapting global DRR frameworks to local context by integrating indigenous knowledge, socio-cultural values and participatory governance, can enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of DRR efforts. Originality/value – Employing discourse analysis through Q methodology, the study explores how local strategies and community-based practices align with, adapt to or diverge from global DRR frameworks. © 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited