What similarities can municipalities experience in crisis management?

Abstract

Municipalities have an important role in crisis management. The Norwegian emergency principles of responsibility, parity and proximity are central, and the government expects municipalities to take care of crises in their area in accordance with the civil protection law. Due to the varying natures of different crises, one can expect crisis management to take different paths. This paper challenges that viewpoint and looks for similarities in municipal crisis management. Theoretical guidelines on preparedness and evaluation of crisis management show some hallmarks, which can encourage uniform practice. Findings from interviews with key personnel in municipalities and a literature review give the conclusion that there are some similarities in municipal crisis management.