What does the term "vulnerability" refer to in humanitarian contexts?

In humanitarian contexts, the term "vulnerability" specifically refers to the susceptibility of individuals or communities to harm from crises. This concept highlights the fact that certain groups may be at greater risk due to a variety of factors, such as their socioeconomic status, geographic location, health, age, or other social determinants. Vulnerability indicates not just the exposure to potential harm, but also the inability of these individuals or communities to cope with, recover from, or adapt to adverse conditions effectively.

Understanding vulnerability allows humanitarian practitioners to focus their efforts on those who are most in need, tailor interventions to mitigate risks, and implement strategies to enhance resilience and support recovery processes. While resilience and adaptation are important concepts in humanitarian work, they do not define vulnerability itself but rather relate to how individuals and communities can respond to and withstand crises.