Natural disasters know no borders – neither do solidarity and mutual support in times of need

This journal aims to reflect on the impact of solidarity in times of crisis and on how public auditors in the European Union (EU) are contributing to alleviating future crises. When people are facing a clear and present danger, political differences and animosities fade away and are replaced by an urge to help and offer solidarity. This journal is produced with the intent to bow to all those giving aid without any interest but the benefit of the receivers: human kindness in its pure form, aid that provides hope of a change for the better, and hope in the face of clear and present danger.

This journal provides insights from community leaders, administrators, disaster risk reduction practitioners, and humanitarian aid partners in the EU and beyond on their respective roles in disaster risk reduction. Interviews with various actors shine a light on accountability, adaptive leadership, organizational effectiveness, data analysis, preparedness and prevention, solidarity and mutual support, and providing aid across borders.