From scientific foresight to risk governance: reflections on earthquake resilience and the 2023 Türkiye disaster

The 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquake was a devastating event, but not an unpredictable one. For decades, the scientific community has consistently warned of the seismic risks across Türkiye’s major fault lines, particularly in the East Anatolian and North Anatolian fault zones. This perspective paper reflects on how decades of scientific foresight can inform not only our understanding of hazards, but also the broader systems and approaches that support disaster risk governance. It explores the evolving role of scientists in engaging public audiences and decision-makers, and highlights the importance of fostering long-term dialogue between science, policy, and communities. The paper offers forward-looking reflections on how risk knowledge can be more effectively used to support resilience. It aims to contribute to global discussions on disaster governance, and highlights the importance of systems that are informed by science and capable of turning knowledge into action.