Enhancing community disaster resilience through social capital and local knowledge integration: Insights from recent scholarship

Abstract

The recent escalation in the global frequency and intensity of compound hazards has prompted a transformation in the discourse regarding disasters, redirecting the focus from recovery to a more profound comprehension of disaster risk, preparedness, risk reduction, and adaptation strategies. However, the policies implemented for post-disaster reconstruction often neglect the significance of place-based social capital perspectives in resilience and recovery efforts, resulting in suboptimal resilience outcomes. This article analyzes strategies for disaster response that prioritize the enhancement of Community Disaster Resilience (CDR) in regions vulnerable to disasters, with a specific focus on the distinctions between the Global North and Global South. The analysis highlights the disparities inherent in disaster preparedness and response systems, emphasizing the importance of social capital and local expertise in formulating effective strategies for disaster risk reduction (DRR). This study employs a systematic literature review methodology to analyze contemporary scholarly contributions, emphasizing that while the Global North benefits from more robust disaster response systems, the Global South faces significant challenges due to inadequate frameworks and governance structures. The findings underscore the imperative to integrate community engagement and indigenous knowledge into disaster management frameworks to bolster resilience. The article concludes by examining the implications for research, policy-making, and practical applications, underscoring the necessity for a thorough understanding of the impact of social capital on disaster resilience. Key words: Community response, disaster resilience, disaster risk, social capital, vulnerability reduction