The Organizational and Institutional Dimension in Local Risk Management: Reflections Based on the Socio-Health Emergency Due to COVID-19 in Paraná, Entre Ríos

Abstract

The Socio-Health Emergency (hereinafter ESS) triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic radically changed the living conditions of the population, affecting various areas, from the family to the institutional and community levels. While initially the repercussions were mainly associated with health, the consequences of the ESS extended to all social, political, and economic dimensions, revealing the deep interconnection between them. This article focuses on the organizational and institutional dimension of local risk management in the city of Paraná between 2020 and 2022, aiming to explore how organizational structures and dynamics were central in the response to the crisis. To this end, we revisit the conclusions from the research project "Practices Implemented in Local Risk Management During the Socio-Health Emergency of COVID-19 in the City of Paraná, 2020-2022," conducted by the Faculty of Social Work (National University of Entre Ríos). The analysis of the ESS allows us to demonstrate that social, political, and health interventions at various levels not only responded to an immediate need for health control but also exposed the strengths and weaknesses of local organizations in the face of a global challenge. Thus, institutional reflection emerges as a key tool to analyze local risk management, as local contexts, with their own dynamics and resources, play a crucial role in shaping appropriate and timely responses. First, we address some theoretical approaches to understanding local risk management as an integral and multidimensional process where organization and institutionality are decisive factors for effective and sustainable interventions during the ESS. Next, we present results on the state capacities deployed by the municipality of Paraná to manage the ESS. Third, we reflect on the role of civil society organizations in local risk management. Finally, we conclude with some reflections on the need to rethink organizational structures and public policies at the local level, in order to strengthen response capacities for future emergencies. We highlight that understanding the institutional and organizational dimension of local risk management is not only essential for immediate intervention in emergency situations but also for the design of public policies that promote risk management across all aspects (prevention, mitigation, emergency response). The ESS has highlighted the need to strengthen the organizational capacities of both government actors and local stakeholders to respond more effectively to risk management.