Integrating Climate Change Adaptation, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Social Protection for Enhanced Resilience: Evidence from the Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Integrating climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and social protection is crucial for enhancing resilience in vulnerable communities. This study aims to assess the level of integration among these three approaches in the Somali Region, Ethiopia. A qualitative methodology, involving a meta-analysis of 122 projects and program documents was conducted to evaluate the integration levels of the approaches. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were also used to gather qualitative insights from stakeholders. The findings reveal that the integration of the three approaches, in the form of adaptive social protection, is limited. While social protection and disaster risk reduction are combined more effectively, the inclusion of climate change adaptation remains insufficient. Duplication of activities is common in programs and projects, wasting resources. The study recommends implementing an adaptive social protection approach with clear institutional arrangements and stakeholder coordination to enhance resilience and resource efficiency.