Examining the performance of responding to the Khoy earthquake 2022, challenges, strengths, and lessons learned: thematic analysis

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Iran experiences earthquakes yearly that cause human and financial losses exceeding global standards and averages. The death rate in developing countries is 12 times higher than that of developed countries. The extent of disasters is such that prevention, preparedness, and response against them are impossible without the widespread participation of organizations and people. One of the methods for reducing damages and risks is to teach first aids to the general public on a large scale. The main objective of this research was to investigate the challenges, strengths, and lessons learned in responding to the earthquake in Khoy. Methodology: This research used a qualitative data collection method. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, and purposive sampling was used to select interviewees. After individual interviews, data were transcribed as documents and audio recordings. For data evaluation and interpretation, thematic content analysis with an inductive approach was used. Findings: After conducting 40 interviews and reaching data saturation, the extraction of experiences and lessons learned for investigating the performance of responsible organizations in the Khoy earthquake in 2022 was obtained. The obtained data were divided into 8 categories and 39 subcategories. The categories included warning and calling forces, disaster assessment, emergency operations management, emergency housing, supply and distribution of items, organization and guidance of public participation and charities, psychological support, logistics operations, monitoring, evaluation and documentation, information dissemination, and media management. Conclusion: This study presented the experiences and lessons learned by responsible organizations in responding to the Khoy earthquake. Responding organizations and institutions in disasters must be prepared for contingency planning as they may face challenges in the response process during assigned missions. It is suggested that various components extracted from this study be used to provide appropriate, effective services, and prevent challenges from arising in similar disaster response phases.