SOCIAL DYNAMICS OF DISASTER MITIGATION

Disaster results in physical destruction, economic damages and social disruption, as well. This research is the lessons learned from the relationship of social dimensions and relief organizations' mitigation behavior in the Manjil earthquake. The context of post disaster was characterized by political pressure, speed, complexity, uncertainty and autonomy dilemma, which are common in most disaster situations. Social structure and functions of social units were not considered seriously in the planning and prograMmes implementation. Therefore, all the affected people were treated the same. The question of roles and responsibilities of social groups were not raised. Women, as the home builders and food providers were left out. The chance for poor community members to take the leadership roles, was missed. Affected people, were not paaeive, but would have, participated "fibre ',actiVelyi• if-the-social factdreWere taken into account by relief organizations