The Resilient City as an Approach to the Reconstruction and Development of Benghazi

Abstract

This study explores the concept of resilience and the resilient city as a modern approach in urban planning, particularly in light of the increasing frequency of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, as well as economic crises and terrorism. The research reviews the development of resilience concepts and practices from their origins to the present day, analyzing various definitions of the resilient city, which emphasize its ability to adapt to both expected and unexpected challenges.
The study also addresses the evolution of planning thought leading to urban resilience, with a special focus on the current conditions of urban development in Libya, especially in Benghazi. It highlights the importance of integrating resilience issues into spatial and urban planning processes for the reconstruction of Benghazi, through identifying indicators that can measure urban resilience.
The findings emphasize that a resilient city must possess key characteristics such as inclusiveness, integration, optimal resource use, rapid responsiveness, and the ability to sustain its functions and thrive under chronic pressures, in addition to quick recovery after shocks and disasters. The research also reviews international initiatives and experiences in achieving urban resilience to provide insights for Libyan urban planning.