Visibility of how authorities work during disaster situations can instil trust in same

Other participants outlined the “visibility” of some authorities – “we see how they work. In case of natural disasters, everybody sees Civil Protection, the fire brigade, soldiers” (G1-P1) – and positive media coverage appeared not only to incur trust but, in some cases, also instil national pride: “From what I see in the internet, TV, newspapers, etc., I think that especially fire fighters and Civil Protection are two Italian realities that are totally able to manage these events. I don’t know if in other countries they have the Civil Protection – I think it’s an Italian peculiarity – and I think they are efficient” (G9-P7).

Cultural Factors: Norms/values, Attitudes toward the media, Attitudes toward authorities

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Response

Types of Actors Concerned: National civil protection body, Local authorities, Media, Government, Red Cross, NGOs, Military, Law enforcement agencies, Healthcare and emergency services

Recommendations:

• Engage in activities and develop strategies aiming to improve trust between citizens and authorities