Potential and Limitations of the Sketch Map Tool in the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement

Sammanfattning: In disaster risk management, participatory mapping (PM) closes spatial data gaps in communities by integrating local risk knowledge. The thesis examined the potential and limitations of the Sketch Map Tool (SMT) as a PM tool for community-based disaster risk reduction (DRR) through an International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement case study. The research evaluated the SMT's applicability for community mapping in the Enhanced Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment by the Colombian Red Cross for hazard analysis, capacity assessment, and action planning, using qualitative interviews, surveys, and community maps. A novel classification assessed the SMT as PM method and software within a participatory and collaborative mapping approach, identifying strengths, shortcomings, and recommendations against the backdrop of contextual PM factors. The SMT proved valuable for collecting, visualising, and analysing local spatial disaster risk knowledge as well as collaborative planning, bridging cost-effective and inclusive paper-based data collection with digital data analysis and storage for more efficient community mapping through digitalisation. Limitations arose from shortcomings in the tool’s effectiveness as a PM method, interrelating with restrictions and problems of software functions and usability, which if tackled may unfold the SMT’s unused potential as adaptable PM method. Future research could test its applicability for other hazards, vulnerability assessments, and ecosystem based DRR. This research establishes the SMT's significance as innovative tool of Participatory Action Research in DRR. With refinements, the SMT shows promise for expanded applications in adaptation planning and holistic disaster risk assessments with forensic approaches by mapping and examining risk drivers and human-nature interactions.