Vulnerability

Vulnerability is susceptibility to, or risk of exposure to, hazards and stresses related to social problems, environmental problems, economic problems, or political problems. The word vulnerability is often used in conjunction with poverty and may specifically imply vulnerability to poverty or to poverty-related issues. Individuals, communities, groups, regions, and nations can be vulnerable and poverty increases this vulnerability. Vulnerability is associated with natural disasters, environmental issues, economic problems, and political conflicts. Disadvantaged and marginalized people are typically considered more vulnerable to hazards and stresses associated with poverty. Often, vulnerability refers to the likelihood that particular poverty-related problems will impact individuals or groups. However, vulnerability can also denote the ability of individuals or groups to cope and recover after exposure to hazards or stresses.

Vulnerability reduction is ...