Introduction to Risk Management and Vulnerability

Introduction to Risk and Vulnerability Management. Definition of Key Concepts, Case Studies from Thailand and Sommières 

Understanding the theory, advantages, and limitations of these methods

1.5-hour written final exam

The EU course “Diagnosis and Management of Natural Risks” will cover the concepts and methods of risk geography, from hazard characterization to risk and crisis management.

The lectures will introduce the conceptual and theoretical foundations of geographical approaches (with a focus on key issues and vulnerabilities). They will also cover the measures, tools, and stakeholders involved in risk and crisis management in France.

The tutorials will demonstrate not only the practical applicability of the methodologies but also the application of the concepts through case studies in France (both mainland and overseas territories) and internationally.

The course material should be supplemented by reading scientific books or articles (see attached non-exhaustive list):

Bailly, A. (ed.). (1996). Natural Hazards, Societal Risks. Economica, Paris, 103 pp.

-Dauphiné, A. (2003). Risks and Disasters: Observing, Spatializing, Understanding, Managing. Collection U, Armand Colin, Paris, 288 pp.

-Garry, G., Gaume, E., and Meschinet de Richemond, N. (2004). Mapping and Management Tools for Natural Hazards in France. In Veyret, Y., Garry, G., and Meschinet de Richemond, N. (eds.). Natural Hazards and Land Use Planning in Europe. Armand Colin, Paris, pp. 46–67

-Leone, F., Meschinet de Richemond, N., and Vinet, F., 2010, Natural Hazards and Risk Management, PUF, 288 pp.

-Veyret, Y. (ed.), Beucher, S., Reghezza, M. (2004). Risks. Amphi Géographies, Bréal, Paris, 208 pp.

-Wackermann, G. (ed.) (2005). The Geography of Risk Around the World. Carrefours-Les Dossiers series, Ellipses, Paris, 2nd updated ed., 501 pp.

The sessions last 3 hours and are assessed through an individual final evaluation (a reasoned response, with or without supporting materials) and a group evaluation (a report or poster).