Comparative analysis of the technical-political logic of reconstruction: Earthquake and forest fires in Maule, Chile

Abstract

The forest fires of 2017 caused significant damage in the Maule Region, and forced a new process of reconstruction in rural areas that had been affected by the 2010 earthquake. This paper aims to identify the main differences in the technical-political logic of reconstruction of houses of each process. Using a qualitative methodology 15 interviews and a focus group with key actors were undertaken, along with analysis of secondary information to characterize the impact and identify the housing policy tools applied. The evidence shows the diversity of the approaches used in reconstruction. On the one hand, important advances were detected, such as the adaptation of technical regulations and policy (subsidies), greater openness to participatory processes, and planning carried out by the State and not left to the voluntarism of private groups. On the other hand, it was also possible to detect the existence of pending issues in the institutional structure of reconstruction, relations between relevant actors and community participation. Overall, in the process of reconstruction following forest fires, the State has assumed a greater role in the coordination of those actors involved and of support of the affected communities.