Abstract:
El Niño is a well-known trigger for natural hazards, the effects of which have imposed great burdens on human populations around the world. The latest El Niño event had a significant impact on Peru in March 2017 when it caused extremely heavy rainfalls and subsequent devastating floods and landslides. Widespread criticism was raised in the aftermath regarding the functioning of institutions in dealing with the disasters and their impact on civil society. This thesis aims to explore the role of the disaster responses taken by Peruvian governments and humanitarian actors, and investigate the impact of their interrelations on disaster relief efforts. Other responses taken by the victims themselves will be explored from the perspectives of some of the institutions involved. It is hoped that this research will raise awareness of potential disaster management inadequacies in the country and contribute to empowering those local communities who are at the forefront of battling against the forces of nature. This thesis employs a qualitative, narrative inquiry approach to analyze data from semi-structured interviews. By positioning this research in a specific locality and listening to local voices there, it focuses on the actual experience of the participants. The research findings show that accumulated political and historical considerations and tensions in Peru have resulted in a short-sighted response to emergencies. The political-economic machinery of successive Peruvian governments has promoted short-term profiteering without due consideration for the sustainable post-disaster recovery process. Humanitarian actors from non-governmental agencies are the main contributors to long-term recovery in disaster response situations, but the actions of these players are undermined by the capitalist-driven market setting, being gradually transformed from depoliticized charitable relief into expedient political solutions. Disaster-affected populations band together to physically confront the authorities in such emergencies. This helps build independence and form a strong bond of solidarity, but those affected are facing more challenges in their post-disaster lives. Obstacles arising in the aftermath of direct confrontation with local government, such as the unequal distribution of aid and enduring poverty, are significant challenges still to be overcome in the future.