Planning for Disaster-Induced Relocation of Communities

Problem, research strategy, and findings: Disasters displace millions of people every year. After the disaster, they must decide whether to return to their homes or move elsewhere. Planners and government officials often propose permanent relocation as a response. But relocations disrupt lives and livelihoods of households and communities and are therefore rarely the preferred option of those affected. Nevertheless, relocations happen, and planners often develop relocation policies and plan the move. We examined the dynamics of the relocation process through a conceptual framework consisting of five interrelated elements: 1) the natural science; 2) the risk decision; 3) the community’s relationship to place; 4) the relocation process, land, and money; and 5) the historical, social, and political context. This research draws from analyses of 53 cases of community relocation, including many that we have directly researched or worked on. Here we introduce this framework as a way for planners to systematically approach the task of evaluating and implementing proposed disaster-induced relocations. Takeaway for practice: In planning for relocation, planners should work with all stakeholders to evaluate the risks, balance the risks of staying against those of relocation, and consider alternatives to complete relocation. Finally, planners should be astute regarding the broader contexts of relocation proposals.