Abstract
This empirical review investigates the diverse functions of emergency management agencies (EMAs) in supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) after both natural and human-made disasters. As global displacement numbers soar to unprecedented heights due to climate-related events and civil disturbances, the shift from emergency assistance to sustainable recovery presents a significant void in humanitarian frameworks. This study consolidates findings from credible sources in disaster sociology and public administration to assess how organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and various National Emergency Management Agencies (NEMA) navigate the "rehabilitation-inclusive" disaster cycle. The review highlights that while EMAs excel in the "search and rescue" stage, their efficiency in the "re-integration" phase is frequently obstructed by disjointed policy structures, insufficient funding, and a scarcity of specialized physical and mental rehabilitation services. By examining the interplay of social capital, infrastructure rebuilding, and healthcare continuity, this review posits that effective re-integration relies on the prompt engagement of rehabilitation experts and the decentralization of agency resources to local communities. The rehabilitation of IDPs encompasses more than just providing temporary housing; it necessitates a thorough restoration of "functioning" as outlined by the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Empirical evidence indicates that the success of EMAs is closely linked to their capacity to oversee the "care continuum," which connects acute trauma treatment with community reintegration. Nevertheless, in numerous regions, corruption and poor inter-agency communication act as major obstacles to efficient service delivery. For example, in areas such as Sub-Saharan Africa, the administration of IDP camps frequently experiences a "relief-dependency" syndrome, where organizations prioritize basic survival over the economic and social empowerment essential for lasting reintegration. Additionally, the aspect of physical rehabilitation often overlooked in the immediate aftermath of a disaster has been identified as a key factor influencing long-term economic productivity for survivors. Research shows that early interventions in physiotherapy and occupational therapy within the disaster zone can significantly lower rates of permanent disability. This review concludes that for Emergency Management Agencies (EMAs) to be genuinely effective, they need to transition from a reactive "command and control" approach to a proactive "resilience-based" strategy that incorporates vocational training, mental health support, and inclusive urban planning into the core disaster management framework.