The added complexity of urban settings

Urban communities face a multiplicity of hazards, adding layers of complexity not seen in the traditional rural contexts. Challenges working in an urban context include identifying and building relationships with key stakeholders: including communities, local government structures and private sector. Urban populations can be highly mobile, and it can be difficult to identify who are the most vulnerable. Identify and addressing needs in the urban context requires a more sophisticated and nuanced approach. Practitioners should consider markets and cash-based initiatives, that more time needs to be invested in communicating with communities, leveraging social media. Finally, consider building in longer lead time for anticipatory action in urban contexts to allow for additional complexities.

Hilla Wessel