Adaptability of Low-Income Communities in Postdisaster Relocation

Problem, research strategy, and findingsAlthough community relocation is increasingly a policy option following disasters, research has shown that it often fails to achieve its goals. Few studies of community relocation following disasters, however, have taken a long-term interdisciplinary view of the realities of multiple actors involved in these processes. In this study I qualitatively tracked 6 years of the government-led relocation of Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda–affected communities in Tacloban City (Philippines) and recommend dimensions of a planning-centered model of community relocation following disasters. A central finding was that residents’ life concerns transformed over time, from hazard risk reduction to life re-establishment and finally to adaptation. Most relocating residents, whatever their temporary location, continued to embed themselves in their pre-typhoon economic and social networks, which gradually changed over the 6 years. The status of new site development and residents’ livelihood outlook in the relocation sites were the key drivers influencing residents’ perception, which evolved as these conditions changed. Residents strategized to improve life and eventually adapted to the new environment.Takeaway for practiceFive dimensions are important for policymakers and planners. First, as a premise, relocating residents change their minds over time. Simply moving residents away from hazard risks is not enough; their concern is also re-establishing their daily lives. Second, proactively strengthening and using residents’ capacity throughout the relocation process helps them better adapt to new environments. Third, applying some transitional strategy for the community to access socioeconomic networks will reduce relocation stress. Fourth, providing information and support helps residents view relocation positively. Last, planning needs to be an iterative, co-designing process to achieve a satisfactory outcome.