Disaster management from the perspective of governance: case study of the Hebei Spirit oil spill

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to attempt, from the perspective of governance, to approach and analyze the cooperation mechanisms as were shown in the case of the Hebei Spirit oil spill disaster management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper described the structure of that governance and examines the relations between actors. On the basis of this information the inner dynamics within their interactions were investigated and key factors for and hindrances to the success were identified.

Findings

Solidarity culture, personal communication media and a wide participation of private actors turned out to be helpful to cooperative mechanisms, whereas the lack of responsiveness of government and the unclear boundary of responsibilities between public organizations stood in the way of harmonious and effective governance.

Practical implications

The paper shows that it is a requisite to have a comprehensive approach and pragmatic policies as well as their implementation mechanisms. There is also a requirement for effective consultation, collaboration and coordination, progress monitoring and above all, the will.

Originality/value

The research leads to the conclusion that the cooperation between public and private sectors in the case of that oil spill disaster shows a possibility of a new paradigm of interactive dialog within the society and thus can be interpreted as governance.

Citation

Hur, J. (2012), "Disaster management from the perspective of governance: case study of the Hebei Spirit oil spill", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 288-298. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653561211234471