On 6 February, two major earthquakes struck Türkiye and Syria, bringing widespread destruction to both countries. Scientists had issued warnings, but the scale of damage caused was never anticipated and had not been prepared for.

In this episode we hear a range of perspectives, including from those on the frontline of the response in both Türkiye and Syria, to build a picture of the different challenges facing both countries today. Experts reflect on the impact of the disaster, how the relief effort is going so far, and what further action is needed to support survivors and rebuild – now and in the long-term.

Speakers

• Sara Pantuliano (host), Chief Executive, ODI
• Dr Burçak Başbuğ Erkan, Associate Professor, Middle Eastern Technical University, Türkiye
• Wesam Sabaaneh, Director, Jafra Foundation for Relief and Youth Development in Syria
• David Alexander, Professor of Emergency Planning and Management, University College London
• Sorcha O’Callaghan, Director, Humanitarian Policy group, ODI
• Evren Aydogan, Executive Director, Ihtiyac Haritasi (Needs Map)
• Khadija Khatib, White Helmets, Syria

Related resources

• Disasters journal – earthquakes in Turkiye: reflections from past experience
• ODI on the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes
• ALNAP’s relevant learning for the earthquake response in Türkiye and Syria