Social Inclusion

Shocks and stresses do not affect all people in the same way. Marginalized groups (women, people with disabilities, older individuals, etc.) are uniquely vulnerable during and after shocks. Limited mobility, uneven access to resources, and power imbalances can mean assistance to these groups is delayed or denied after a disaster or crisis. Current research aims to show how social inclusion can increase sources of resilience (such as social capital and financial inclusion).

Approach

Integrating traditionally marginalized groups into society, feedback, and program design can increase resilience program and activity effectiveness. In a mixed-caste community, greater social inclusion helps people of lower socioeconomic status access informal finance. This is accomplished through connections with wealthier neighbors.

Involving youth, women, and older people in household decision-making also helps to increase resilience. It creates equitable approaches to financial decisions that affect the household. This leads to more financial stability when shocks occur. Market linkages for women and youth also increase and diversify household incomes.

Evidence

Most research on social inclusion in resilience has focused on gender. Empowered women are less likely to apply negative coping strategies or be food insecure.