Assessing Disaster Resilience in Climate-Vulnerable Communities: A Financial Resilience-Based Grading Framework for Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh, one of the world's most climate-vulnerable nations, faces increasing challenges due to high population density and frequent extreme weather events. Coastal communities, in particular, suffer substantial economic losses from climate-related hazards. This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework for identifying disaster resilience indicators, focusing on financial resilience, and creating a grading system for community disaster resilience. Drawing from resilience assessment frameworks like the Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI) and the 5 Capitals Model, the research crafted a tailored framework for the local context. Using the Grade Point Index (GPI) method, scores were calculated for each parameter and dimension. The study focused on the climate-vulnerable, low-income communities of Koyra, Shyamnagar, and Monirampur, identified through consultations and vulnerability assessments, with support from Islamic Relief Bangladesh. Findings revealed critical gaps in financial capacity, limited income diversification, and low household savings, weakening overall resilience. Access to social safety nets was also limited, particularly in the most vulnerable areas. The newly developed resilience grading tool showed nearly 90% of indicators in critical categories, underscoring significant shortcomings in community resilience. This tool allows for quick assessments, ongoing monitoring, and comparative analysis, offering valuable insights for planning, management, and policy development. The study recommends policymakers and development agencies adopt this grading method to prioritize interventions and support to make resilient of any vulnerable community.