Case study in disaster relief: A descriptive analysis of agency partnerships in the aftermath of the January 12th, 2010 Haitian earthquake

• Published in: Socio-economic planning sciences 2012-03, Vol.46 (1), p.67-77
• Main Authors: Coles, John B., Zhuang, Jun, Yates, Justin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Agency; Disaster management; Disaster relief; Earthquakes; Foreign aid; Haiti; Humanitarian logistics; Humanitarianism; Interagency partnership; Interviews; Networks
• ISSN: 0038-0121; 1873-6041
• DOI: 10.1016/j.seps.2011.08.002

This study analyzes the disaster response and recovery efforts following the January 12th, 2010 Haitian earthquake through the eyes of 18 different relief agencies. Focusing on the formation and maintenance of partnerships after the catastrophic earthquake, this paper explores the concepts of cooperation, mutual understanding, and connectivity among agencies responding to the earthquake. The case study is based on results from interviews and interactions with 18 agencies during a month-long trip to Haiti in the summer of 2010. Of the agencies interviewed, it was found that agencies that had no partnerships or presence in Haiti prior to the earthquake were most likely to build new clinics, orphanages, and schools. Additionally, we found that agencies were more likely to develop new partnerships from new contacts rather than dormant contacts. By studying the partnerships between local and international agencies, it was found that their relationships were less stable than partnerships between international agencies. This study hopes to increase understanding and applicability of research in disaster relief networks by providing a new perspective into how agencies work together. ► We analyze the disaster response/recovery efforts following 2010 Haiti earthquake. ► This research is based on interviews with 18 different relief agencies. ► We study the cooperation, mutual understanding, and connectivity among agencies. ► We find prior-event partnerships or presence is the key to the post-event success. ► Partnerships are more likely to develop from new contacts than from (older) dormant contacts.