Social solidarity practices in the post-earthquake period: the case of the february 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes

Earthquakes are important disasters that affect individual and social life when they occur. Earthquakes, which cause destruction in the regions where they affect, also lead to loss of life, injuries, disability, financial losses, psychological disorders and social problems. The recent Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes reveal these negativities. In overcoming these negativities that emerged as a result of the earthquake; It is seen that social solidarity, cooperation and unity play an important role. In this context, the subject of the study is to evaluate the solidarity practices that developed after the Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes. The aim of the study is to reveal the post-earthquake solidarity practices and the effects of solidarity, specifically the Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes. Qualitative research methods were adopted as the method in the study. In the study designed in accordance with the phenomenological design, interviews were conducted using the purposive sample selection technique. While obtaining the data, interview, focus group and observation techniques were used together, adhering to data triangulation. In this regard, in addition to the observation technique, a semi-divided interview was held with 20 earthquake victims and a focus group interview was held with 12 participants (two groups) who went to help after the earthquake. Content analysis was used in the analysis of the obtained data. The data obtained shows that, from the moment the earthquakes first struck, a social reflex was triggered, leading to the development of practices of solidarity and mutual aid. It was found that expressions such as "apocalypse, disaster, chaos, horror movie, nightmare, and doomsday" were used to describe the fear of earthquakes, and that theological and scientific interpretations of earthquakes were also offered. It has been determined that the problems caused by the earthquake have further deepened the existing class, gender, disability, and child inequalities in society. Additionally, the earthquakes have created needs such as shelter, clothing, food, and water, particularly in terms of search and rescue efforts. In the following stages, psychological issues such as trauma, grief after loss, and loneliness emerged, and psychosocial support was needed. NGO members, volunteers, and individuals providing assistance organized themselves through telephone, messaging, or digital applications to provide assistance and play a role in meeting needs. Individuals participated in the process through state assistance, NGOs, or individually. It was concluded that the process was based on national and religious solidarity, that it was carried out with a sense of unity and togetherness, and that individuals participated in solidarity activities physically, materially, and financially. However, during the process, it was observed that exceptional cases of opportunism, theft, and looting developed; chaos ensued due to misinformation and information pollution; and the process of solidarity was negatively affected by coordination issues, transportation problems, and aid provided for self-interest. In terms of solidarity, it was noticeable that different forms—mechanical, organic, rural, digital, and individual—were intertwined. It has been determined that the solidarity, mutual aid, and unity demonstrated have been effective in mitigating the negative effects of the earthquake. At this point, it has been concluded that the community has mobilized as a whole, aid has been delivered to the region, and a spirit of solidarity has been demonstrated.