The proposed Union Symposia at EGU25 will focus on the critical balance between top-down and bottom-up approaches in hazard risk and disaster management, with an emphasis on how trust influences risk perception and community engagement in resilience efforts. Previous EGU Great Debates have largely centered on scientific research needs, often sidelining the voices of affected communities. This session aims to shift the focus, exploring how scientists, policy-makers, and practitioners can work together to integrate local knowledge and foster community-driven resilience. The debate will examine the role of trust in shaping risk perception and how scientists can build credibility with communities to improve disaster preparedness.

Bringing together diverse stakeholders—including policy-makers, practitioners, and scientists—the session will encourage an inclusive dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in disaster management. The interactive format will foster cross-disciplinary discussions on balancing centralized decision-making with community empowerment while exploring how trust can enhance cooperation between experts and local populations. By incorporating lessons from ongoing EU resilience initiatives, the symposia will generate actionable insights and policy recommendations, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of disaster resilience that aligns with both scientific advancement and community needs.