Rethinking social capital in wildfire resilience: the case of central Portugal

Abstract

This article explores the role of social capital in wildfire resilience and is based on case study research in central Portugal. Given the recent revival of the concept across disciplines to explain how communities can cope with hazards, we critically analyse social capital through a social network analysis perspective, introducing an innovative methodological approach. By focusing on the socio-cultural structures that influence preventive and recovery capacities, two rural communities were assessed and compared to understand the conditions under which social networks operate. The results confirm the importance of bridging and linking ties but reveal the need for shared collective norms and values to sustain preparedness and recovery initiatives, especially when institutional risk management systems fail. We argue that the context in which social capital is activated reflects the socio-political dimensions of wildfires and sheds light on the overlooked efforts of rural communities to resist their relegated status as second-class citizens.