National Planning and Response: National Systems

Abstract

The notion of a “national system” evokes an image of unity, perhaps even coherence and integration, which many in the disaster management field would query. The assumption that through orderly arrangements, disaster risk goals are being achieved in the best possible manner is not a reality yet. To be fair, disaster management is not the only field of endeavor that falls short, although it is true that disaster management coordination has long been a problem. The term “national system” also directs attention to different governance levels and mechanisms to secure systematic action. In this context the role of central government comes to the fore, and this is the focus of attention in this discussion. Studying national-level planning and response systems requires analyzing the role of central governments: “national” disaster management calls for specific actions at a central government level. Some general observations about governmental classifications and the role of government will set the scene for a review of this system level.