How is 'community resilience' defined in development practice?

'Community resilience' in development practice is defined as the capacity to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. This encompasses not only the ability to recover from challenges such as natural disasters, economic shocks, or social upheaval but also the strength to emerge stronger and more cohesive after such experiences.

In this context, resilience involves flexible responses to various stresses, the capability to mobilize resources effectively, and the fostering of strong community ties that support collective action. A resilient community utilizes its resources—be they social, economic, or environmental—to create solutions that promote well-being and sustainable development, ensuring that members can withstand and grow from difficulties they encounter. This perspective emphasizes the importance of adaptation and proactive measures in strengthening community bonds, which are crucial for long-term development.

Other definitions, while they may capture aspects of resilience, fall short of encompassing the full scope of what community resilience entails. For example, merely avoiding risks does not account for the dynamic process of overcoming challenges, and focusing solely on the strength of social networks or economic stability does not reflect the multi-dimensional nature of resilience as it relates to adaptation and thriving.