Rethinking Disaster Resilience: Conceptual Framework, Core Dimensions, and Key Actors

This article explores the conceptual and theoretical foundations of disaster resilience to understand its full complexity and multidisciplinary nature. The first section traces definitions from their etymological origins and early scholarly interpretations to modern perspectives that view resilience as a dynamic mechanism for overcoming risk and crisis. It highlights the concept’s adaptability and transformability, as well as the role of learning in establishing stability—i.e., resilience. The second section organizes the conceptual framework of disaster resilience and its multiple dimensions. Resilience is seen as a combination of physical, social, institutional, and economic aspects, with particular focus on social cohesion and a culture of safety. The analysis emphasizes resilience as fundamental to sustainable development and societal strength. The third section examines different resilience dimensions, noting that there is no universal set; they vary by context and methodology. It considers biophysical, social, institutional, and local aspects, as well as the importance of prevention, education, infrastructure standards, and international cooperation in enhancing resilience. The fourth section discusses the leading actors in resilience—individuals, communities, and institutions—focusing on psychological skills at the individual level, social capital and solidarity at the community level, and the importance of institutional coordination and global initiatives that foster a culture of resilience. The discussion links these findings to existing research and points out the absence of universal indicators and standardized methods for measuring resilience. In conclusion, the article asserts that disaster resilience is an evolving process involving multiple dimensions and active participation from actors across all levels. A holistic approach, combined with new analytical tools, is crucial for accurate measurement and practical implementation in risk management, thereby establishing clear connections between local capacities, institutional policies, and international resilience efforts.