Criteria for and Policy Implications of Setting Recovery Priorities of National Functions during Disruptions by Disasters

Abstract

National functions are categories of operations prioritised for restoration when disrupted by emergencies such as disasters. However, the simultaneous restoration of all national functions when some or all are paralysed is limited by time and resources. Delays in the restoration of key functions can lead to public dissatisfaction. Thus, it is necessary to broadly classify national functions and analyse their restoration priorities based on criticality. This study identifies 19 national functions from Republic of Korea’s comprehensive Business Reference Model. A survey was conducted among citizens and officials to determine the criticality of each function. Statistical analyses verified the consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.860) and correlation (average Cramer’s V = 0.107) of the criticality responses across regions. The null hypothesis of no regional differences in the criticality of national functions was accepted, validating their universality. Restoration priorities were derived from these criticality values, with ‘Disaster Safety Response’ as the highest priority and ‘Regional Development’ as the lowest. These results provide foundational data for the post-disaster restoration priorities of national functions and emphasise the need to consider public opinion, needs, and government resource limitations in disaster management planning.