Disaster Journalism in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

This research aims, from a phenomenological perspective, to examine the real-life experiences of journalists who have worked in various disaster and crisis zones in Türkiye. Data obtained from semi-structured interviews with 17 journalists, selected using purposive sampling, were analyzed with a combination of COREQ's phenomenological analysis protocol and interpretative analysis. As a result of the analyses, five main themes emerged: (1) Field Organization, Preparedness and Information Management, (2) Multidimensional Challenges Faced by Disaster Journalists, (3) Role, Responsibility, and Ethical Dimensions, (4) Social Contribution of Journalism and its Impact on Resilience, (5) Professional Resilience and Psychological Burden. The findings reveal that disaster journalists are not only transmitters of information but also actors who facilitate inter-institutional communication, serve as life-saving bridges, and make tangible contributions to community resilience. The research also shows that these journalists face structural problems, such as insufficient institutional support, psychological burdens, and a lack of coordination. The findings were discussed in the context of disaster journalism literature and the Sendai Framework, and practical recommendations were developed for policymakers and media organizations.