A pathway towards resilient cities: National resilience knowledge networks: Fid-Bau Portal

A pathway towards resilient cities: National resilience knowledge networks

Elkhidir, Elrasheid / Mannakkara, Sandeeka / Henning, Theunis F.P. / Wilkinson, Suzanne

Abstract The development of networks for resilience-knowledge sharing and support is as a popular solution for building resilience in cities. Despite the benefits of knowledge sharing and collaboration for resilience building between cities on an international scale, there is a gap in the literature and practice regarding such networks at the national level. This research involves a survey of city authorities' perceptions of the benefits of the creation of a national knowledge-sharing network, their criteria for selecting resilience partners, and their preferred mechanisms for knowledge sharing and diffusion within the network. Using New Zealand (NZ) as a case study, the current exploratory sequential study implements an initial qualitative stage with selected NZ cities to determine initial criteria, followed by a nationwide quantitative survey to test these criteria. A final quantitative survey with international subject-matter experts was conducted for international transferability. The study revealed that establishing a national-level resilience-knowledge network requires general and supportive conditions, specific criteria for selecting suitable resilience collaboration-partner cities, and appropriate knowledge-transfer mechanisms. The findings can be used to guide the development of national resilience-knowledge networks and are aimed at local governments, policymakers and analysts, resilience practitioners, and knowledge-network managers.

Highlights • Working collaboratively and peer-to-peer city learning can provide a promising pathway for resilience enhancement. • A national resilience-knowledge network promotes knowledge sharing, collaboration, standardisation of resilience approaches, and enhances the relationship between academia and resilience practice. • Three pillars were identified for establishing a resilience network: general governance and characteristics of the network, resilience partner selection, and knowledge management mechanisms. • Selecting a suitable resilience partner can be influenced by factors such as geographic proximity and similarity of resources allocated for resilience building. • Selection of the right channels for knowledge transfer and engagement can enhance the outcomes of collaborating for resilience.