In humanitarian contexts, what does "capacity building" mean?

Capacity building in humanitarian contexts refers to the process of strengthening the skills and abilities of individuals and organizations, enabling them to respond more effectively to crises and enhance their resilience against future challenges. This involves training, resource allocation, and support tailored toward enhancing the capabilities of local communities and institutions.

When a community is empowered with the necessary skills and knowledge, they are better equipped to handle emergencies, manage resources, and implement sustainable development practices. The focus is not solely on immediate disaster response but also on fostering long-term resilience and self-sufficiency.

Creating temporary shelters for victims, providing financial aid, or recruiting volunteers, while important components of humanitarian assistance, do not encompass the holistic approach that capacity building represents. These options might address immediate needs or support ongoing operations, but they don't enhance the foundational capabilities of individuals or organizations to manage future crises independently.