ABSTRACT
Italy’s response to post-disaster reconstruction has historically used ad hoc solutions with varying degrees of community participation. This chapter considers how the recent introduction of participation in the planning system has influenced disaster responses by comparing an exclusionary state-led top-down approach in L’Aquila with a regionally coordinated participatory response in Emilia Romagna. What emerges is that there are positive benefits to the inclusive approach, adopted in Emilia Romagna, with the potential to better interpret community needs and values. as well as to positively contribute to a successful recovery.
