People Vulnerability before, during and after a Disaster: A Dynamic Taxonomic Approach

Abstract

This chapter provides a taxonomic approach to vulnerability precursors and relevant inhibitors, tackling the entire disaster management cycle, through the analysis of various vulnerability factors “before, during, after” a disaster. Specifically, following the analysis of various existing approaches and models of human vulnerability in disasters, this work proposes an actionable roadmap to identify the criticality points (Critical Vulnerability Indicators - CVIs) under a comprehensive and inclusive approach. In this regard, the following aspects have been elicited: (i) the background; intrinsic weaknesses or possible non-compliance conditions, as well as the social and economic status; (ii) the human-environment interaction; (iii) the governance model; policies and approaches to disaster risk management; (iv) the tools; application of new technologies and modeling tools. This taxonomic approach allows the comprehensive understanding of vulnerability associated with different vulnerable groups and beyond; it aims at a better understanding of the mechanisms that activate and maintain vulnerability, under a dynamic and contextual perspective, highlighting the importance of human variability and interaction with the physical environment. The proposed vulnerability analysis approach could help the policymakers or the relevant authorities to identify the critical points for building inclusive disaster risk reduction and resilience strategies.