Disaster Diplomacy in Action: The 2019 Albania Earthquake and the Geopolitics of Humanitarian Aid
Published:
Dec 29, 2025
Keywords:
disaster diplomacy foreign policy international relations geopolitical strategy crisis response bilateral cooperation Albania earthquake
Abstract
The intersection of natural disasters and international diplomacy has gained increasing attention as humanitarian assistance becomes a strategic tool in foreign policy. While disaster response efforts are often framed as humanitarian necessities, they are frequently shaped by geopolitical interests, economic imperatives, and security considerations. This article examines the concept of disaster diplomacy by analyzing how states engage in humanitarian action to strengthen alliances, project soft power, and influence regional stability. Through a case study of the 2019 Albania earthquake, the paper explores how international responses—particularly from Greece, Turkey, the European Union, and the United States—reflect broader diplomatic dynamics in the Balkans. While disaster relief can serve as a catalyst for improved bilateral relations, its effectiveness in fostering long-term diplomatic stability remains uncertain.
Despite growing academic interest in disaster diplomacy, critical knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding the sustainability of diplomatic gains achieved through humanitarian interventions. The absence of a structured framework for integrating humanitarian aid into foreign policy planning complicates the assessment of its long-term impact. Institutional coordination challenges, the role of non-state actors, and the politicization of aid further influence the effectiveness of disaster diplomacy. This article highlights the need for comprehensive research on the geopolitical dimensions of humanitarian assistance and calls for better integration of disaster diplomacy into global governance frameworks. Strengthening institutional coordination, enhancing regional disaster response mechanisms, and conducting longitudinal studies on the diplomatic effects of humanitarian aid are essential for refining both policy and practice. Addressing these challenges will ensure that disaster diplomacy contributes not only to crisis response but also to sustainable international cooperation.
Article Details
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Delakouridis, I., Lekkas, E., Antonarakou, A., & Lozios, S. (2025). Disaster Diplomacy in Action: The 2019 Albania Earthquake and the Geopolitics of Humanitarian Aid. Bulletin of the Geological Society of Greece, 62(1), 113–139. Retrieved from https://ejournals.epublishing.ekt.gr/index.php/geosociety/article/view/43552
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- Disaster Science
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