Abstract
In recent years, with the multiculturalization of local communities and the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, a paradigm shift in local disaster management in a multicultural society is required. The challenge has shifted from the traditional "how to save foreigners in times of disaster" to "how to build mutual support relationships with foreigners in local communities". Therefore, this study conducted interviews with key persons in the local community with the aim of clarifying the formation process of mutual support networks with foreigners. Analysis using the Modified Grounded Theory Approach (M-GTA) revealed that it is effective to incorporate the perspective of disaster reduction not only in disaster reduction activities in a narrow sense, but also in local Japanese language classes and international exchange activities in which foreign residents participate. In addition, the "a place where you can be yourself" perspective can be utilized not only in disaster education for foreigners, but also in disaster education for Japanese people, when considering proactive disaster prevention activities.
