ABSTRACT
Chapter 10 explores how vulnerabilities are dependent upon a complex relationship of various factors, including gender. Culture and religion have the capacity to strengthen resilience building and resilience can be undermined and disrupted by actions carried out in the name of religion. Buddhist practices were found to be important in resilience building, in terms of both individual and communal capacities to prepare for, withstand and adjust to changed conditions after a disaster. Culture and religious practices develop a sense of connection and wellbeing after a disaster, and religious practices are found to be of special importance in maintaining the feeling of belonging.
