Abstract
This study aims to explore a potential casual mechanism between natural disasters and states’ use of repression. It is well established that natural disasters can increase state repression, but do not always. I propose that corruption by the government of humanitarian aid received after the disaster is one context in which repression could then occur. I specifically hypothesize that if there is corruption of humanitarian aid after a natural disaster that is discovered by the public, there will be public mobilization that the state will respond to with repressive measures. I explore this hypothesis through two case studies: an earthquake in 2007 in Peru and an earthquake in 2010 in Chile. While some evidence of corruption of aid was found in Peru, there was no evidence of subsequent related protests. In Chile, no evidence of corruption was found, and therefore no public mobilization. The study concludes with policy recommendations and suggestions for future research
Advisor
Leiby, Michele
Department
Political Science
Recommended Citation
Pinney, Lark, "Exploiting Emergencies: Government Corruption and Repression in Post-Disaster Societies" (2023). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 10639.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/10639
Disciplines
Comparative Politics | Political Science | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Keywords
Natural Disasters, Earthquakes, Repression, Corruption, Peru, Chile
Publication Date
2023
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2023 Lark Pinney