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Mobilising Community Engagement in Disaster Risk‐Sensitive Urban Planning: Insights From Grounded Theory and Two‐Mode Social Network Analysis

Author

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  • Devindi Geekiyanage
  • Terrence Fernando
  • Kaushal Keraminiyage

Abstract

Despite the emphasis in sustainable development goals (SDG) 11, 13, and 17 on collaborative efforts to address climate change‐induced disaster risks through inclusive planning, stakeholders' role in fostering community engagement in risk‐sensitive urban planning (RSUP) remains underexplored. This study, focusing on Sri Lanka, employs a two‐mode social network analysis to examine stakeholders' roles in overcoming barriers and promoting enablers of inclusive RSUP. Through documentary review, expert interviews, and focus‐group discussions, 62 stakeholders, 19 barriers, and 19 enablers were identified. State agencies for urban development and disaster management, non‐governmental organisations (NGOs), and inter‐governmental organisations (IGOs) were found to influence over half of the barriers and enablers. Most stakeholders demonstrate the capacity to address gaps in community knowledge, skills, and competencies while incorporating lived experiences into development planning. NGOs and IGOs are vital for securing resources, knowledge, and technical support. The findings emphasise a multistakeholder approach for enhancing national‐level decision‐making, policy design, and offer insights into fostering partnerships and addressing challenges for resilient urban environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Devindi Geekiyanage & Terrence Fernando & Kaushal Keraminiyage, 2026. "Mobilising Community Engagement in Disaster Risk‐Sensitive Urban Planning: Insights From Grounded Theory and Two‐Mode Social Network Analysis," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(1), pages 41-64, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:34:y:2026:i:1:p:41-64
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70241
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kayleigh Swanson, 2021. "Equity in Urban Climate Change Adaptation Planning: A Review of Research," Urban Planning, Cogitatio Press, vol. 6(4), pages 287-297.
    2. Pavithra Ganeshu & Terrence Fernando & Kaushal Keraminiyage, 2023. "Barriers to, and Enablers for, Stakeholder Collaboration in Risk-Sensitive Urban Planning: A Systematised Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-24, March.
    3. Torbjørn Selseng & Arild Gjertsen, 2024. "What drives sustainable climate change adaptation at the local level? Approaching three knowledge gaps," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(6), pages 6504-6519, December.
    4. Devindi Geekiyanage & Terrence Fernando & Kaushal Keraminiyage, 2021. "Mapping Participatory Methods in the Urban Development Process: A Systematic Review and Case-Based Evidence Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(16), pages 1-28, August.
    5. Christoph Morosoli & Peter Draper & Andreas Freytag & Sebastian Schuhmann, 2024. "Drivers of Inclusive Development: An Empirical Investigation," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 36(4), pages 987-1015, August.
    6. Maiko Sakamoto, 2024. "The role of social capital in community development: Insights from behavioral game theory and social network analysis," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(5), pages 5240-5258, October.
    7. Kayleigh Swanson, 2021. "Equity in Urban Climate Change Adaptation Planning: A Review of Research," Urban Planning, Cogitatio Press, vol. 6(4), pages 287-297.
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