Gender, Disability, and Inclusion in Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Adaptation: A Study on Institutional Inertia and Resilience in the Mangrove Coastal Belt of Bangladesh

Abstract

This study examines inclusive disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) in the mangrove-dependent coastal areas of Bangladesh, with a particular attention to women and persons with disabilities. Focusing on the Sundarbans context, the analysis considers how weakening mangrove buffers, salinity intrusion, erosion, and recurring cyclones shape everyday risk. Using an intersectionality framework, it explores how gender, disability, poverty, and geographic marginalization interact to increase vulnerability, a perspective often overlooked in conventional disaster studies. The study adopts a qualitative research design combining literature review and 12 focus group discussions in two unions of Bagerhat District: Southkhali (Sharankhola Upazila) and Nishanbaria (Morrelganj Upazila). Findings reveal limited access to early warnings and shelters for persons with disabilities, male-dominated disaster committees with minimal space for women’s participation, and weak awareness of inclusive DRR/CCA among frontline actors. Communities link declining mangrove health to stronger cyclone impacts, saline water intrusion, and reduced fishing and honey collection. Women highlight coping through savings groups, food storage, and informal warning networks; men mention crop diversification and fishing adjustments; persons with disabilities depend heavily on family support. Nature-based solutions, including mangrove planting and aquaculture, show potential but face challenges of poor seedling survival, limited consultation, and weak institutional support. Recommendations stress accessible infrastructure, inclusion targets with budgets, regular participation of women and persons with disabilities in disaster planning, and stronger integration of mangrove management with local DRR/CCA strategies.

Social Science Review [The Dhaka University Studies, Part-D], Vol.43, No.1, June 2026, pp. 99-139.