Beyond solidarity and losses in aid: strategic approaches towards adversity

Natural adversity elicits public policy reactions in accordance with its negative impact; aid actions are expectedly seen as altruistically driven. This article is based on interviews with experts from NGOs and public emergency response agencies. It debates the paradoxical potentialities that may arise in post-disaster situations. Topics discussed include: factors surpassing altruism, mass media as a solidarity regulator tool, conflicts between what is understood internationally and what may, in fact, be adopted at the local level, and strategies to internalise resources. Conclusions recognise potentialities as concrete assets for policy makers, but suggest we do not yet possess the ability to strategically identify them as unique and positive opportunities.