Centring local values in assessing and addressing climate-related losses and damages: A case study in Durgapur Upazilla, Bangladesh

This technical report outlines research to develop a methodology that accurately portrays on-the-ground experiences and comprehensively depicts the losses and damages that affected societies’ experience. By conducting a literature review, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys with people in three areas of Durgapur Upazilla, Netrokona District in northcentral Bangladesh, researchers sought to understand what aspects of life are considered most important by those affected, and how they are being impacted by climate change. It also sought to better understand what steps can be taken to address losses and damages fairly and effectively. 

This study shows how establishing local values with participants, instead of following pre-determined typologies, results in a deeper understanding of why affected societies value certain aspects of life and to what extent, and results in a contextually and culturally sensitive analysis of losses and damages. This approach, together with a focus on differentiated vulnerabilities and interconnections, can defy a dichotomy between what is ‘economic’ and ‘noneconomic’ and give a comprehensive overview of the losses and damages experienced while emphasising the importance of subjective, intangible losses and damages.