In Good Company: Why Social Capital Matters for Women during Disaster Recovery

Citation:

Ganapati, N. Emel. 2014. “In Good Company: Why Social Capital Matters for Women during Disaster Recovery.” Public Administration Review 72 (3): 419–27. doi:10.1111/j.1540-6210.2011.02526.x.

Author: Emel N. Ganapati

Abstract:

Although social capital has made inroads into the public administration literature, little is known about the gender dimensions of social capital in the context of a disaster. This article examines what kind of benefits, if any, social capital offers for women who are affected by disasters. Studying this question is important because it would help public administrators overcome the unique vulnerabilities of women and strengthen their capabilities in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. This case study of the city of Gölcük, Turkey, suggests that social capital offers benefits for women affected by disasters because it is therapeutic in nature and helps women gain empowerment and avoid the stigma of public assistance. The article offers lessons on how public administrators could build social capital in disaster-stricken communities by enabling face-to-face interaction, initiating leadership programs, and putting in place institutions and policies that are conducive to collective action.

Topics: Environment, Environmental Disasters, Gender, Women, Gender Mainstreaming Regions: MENA, Asia, Europe, Southern Europe Countries: Turkey

Year: 2012