Abstract

This study examines the collaborative dynamics between civilian and religious authorities in providing psychosocial support following the 2014 floods in the Sava, Vrbas, and Vrbanja River Basins in the Republic of Srpska / Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through surveys with 275 residents and interviews with civil and religious authorities, a notable pattern emerged: while both groups expressed a mutual desire to work together, a reluctance to initiate collaboration hindered progress. Interviews revealed that each group awaited an invitation from the other, resulting in a standstill despite shared interests in cooperation. The study identifies several underlying reasons for this hesitation. Uncertainties about roles, responsibilities, and communication channels contributed to the impasse, perpetuating a cycle of inaction. Despite recognizing the importance of supporting disaster-affected communities, the absence of proactive outreach from either side sustained the disconnect. This research underscores the significance of addressing these collaborative barriers. It emphasizes the need for clear communication, mutual understanding, and proactive engagement to foster effective collaboration between civilian and religious authorities. By creating an environment conducive to openness and initiative-taking, stakeholders can overcome hurdles and enhance disaster response and resilience efforts. The findings have implications for policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders involved in disaster management. By acknowledging and addressing the challenges inhibiting collaboration, stakeholders can unlock the potential of civilian-religious partnerships to strengthen psychosocial support provision and build more resilient communities in the face of future disasters.