The Role of the Affected State: A Case Study on the Peruvian Earthquake Response

On 15 August 2007, an earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale hit off the Peruvian coast, with several aftershocks the following day. The earthquake caused severe damage to the department of Ica, particularly to the cities of Pisco, Chincha and Ica. The earthquake also affected the city of Cañete in the department of Lima, and Huancavelica department. Almost 600 people were killed, an estimated 1,000 injured and over 70,000 families affected.1 There was extensive damage to government buildings, homes, schools, churches, roads and bridges, creating a consequent need for shelter, food, water, healthcare, sanitation and security. The Peruvian government declared a state of emergency and, with the support of the international community, led the response through the National Civil Defence System (Sistema Nacional de Defensa Civil – SINADECI )).

This study analyses the Peruvian state’s response to the earthquake and assesses its relationship with domestic non-governmental actors and the international community. The aim is to constructively reflect on the response in order to generate learning and policy recommendations that can help improve future responses. This of particular importance as the country is prone to earthquake-related disasters. The study, funded by the Department for International Development (DFID), is part of wider work by the Humanitarian Policy Group on the role of affected states in disaster response. Although most international statements of principle regarding humanitarian action start with a reaffirmation of the primary responsibility of states for the welfare of victims of humanitarian emergencies within their borders, there is very little comprehensive analysis on the actual role states play in domestic response, including institutional arrangements, levels of public financing and key actors involved. This lack of knowledge can lead to poor coordination and communication, duplication of effort and shortfalls in the delivery of relief. Some of these concerns were evident in the response to the Peruvian earthquake.