Advancing flood resilience in North African coastal Cities: A contextual analysis of Jijel, Algeria

Abstract

Worldwide, flood resilience strategies are increasingly moving from theoretical frameworks to on-the-ground application, especially in regions grappling with climate change and rapid urbanization. North African coastal cities face heightened flood risks driven by intensified rainfall, sea-level rise, and significant land-use transitions. This paper introduces a contextual flood resilience framework − encompassing governance, socio-economic, and environmental dimensions − and applies it to the city of Jijel, Algeria. Integrating GIS-based land-use analyses with stakeholder surveys and policy reviews, the study identifies institutional fragmentation, outdated urban planning, and informal housing as key drivers of vulnerability. Results suggest that strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, investing in adaptive infrastructure, and fostering collaborative governance are critical for long-term flood resilience. In offering targeted recommendations for North African coastal settings, this research underscores the value of a multidimensional, context-sensitive approach to addressing flood risks across a rapidly changing urban landscape.