How do non-Western authoritarian countries respond to disasters? Structural difference from the pluralistic model

Abstract

Effective coordination, networking, and voluntary civil engagement are crucial for ensuring effective disaster responses. It should be noted, however, that these recommendations are primarily derived from the experiences of Western pluralistic countries. Thus, there has been insufficient consideration given to the applicability of these recommendations to non-pluralistic countries and the ways in which non-Western authoritarian countries navigate the difficulties of coordinating and establishing networks with civil sector organizations. This study broadens the scope of research by examining non-Western authoritarian countries through an analysis of how China responded to the floods of 2020. The results of the study indicate that the Chinese flood response system was primarily government-driven, centralized, and hierarchical. According to the pluralistic model, this arrangement encounters difficulties in integrating resources and information from partners in different sectors and jurisdictions. Consequently, this poses additional challenges to the Chinese disaster response systems. Nevertheless, the study findings reveal that the Chinese system proficiently resolved problems. This was accomplished by flattening the hierarchical structure via innovative interventions and remedying the lack of voluntary civic sector engagement through mass mobilization. Consequently, it would be fallacious to hold that the pluralist model can be effortlessly transplanted to non-Western authoritarian nations without regard for their distinct political, cultural, economic, and social contexts. To improve disaster response, practitioners should consider adapting hierarchical networks and embracing flexibility. This can be achieved by reducing bureaucratic layers, which enhances effectiveness and encourages innovative interventions for streamlined decision making. It is important to emphasize provincial–local support and mass mobilization, as seen in China, which underscores the need for engaging civil sectors in non-pluralistic contexts. Context-specific approaches are crucial and should consider political, cultural, and social factors. Transforming hierarchical structures into modular networks may improve response.