Factors influencing the refusal of postdisaster relocation: insights from resettled individuals and professionals in Sri Lanka

Purpose This paper aims to identify key factors influencing the refusal of postdisaster relocation in Sri Lanka’s Western Province. It examines perspectives from resettled individuals’ returnees to the original location and relevant experts. While postdisaster relocation is intended to enhance the well-being of victims, resistance to such programs persists the necessity for a deeper analysis. Design/methodology/approach A mixed approach was adopted in collecting and analyzing data from two samples. Quantitative analysis was conducted on survey data from 102 resettled residents, while qualitative content analysis was applied to semi-structured interviews with three public officials, to validate resident’s perspectives. Five major rejection components, along with their associated sub variables, identified through literature review and field observations specific to Sri Lanka were considered as independent variables. Resettlement rejection was treated as the dependent variable. Findings Results indicate that the social and economic components are the primary contributors to the rejection of resettlement, aligning with Clause No 08 of the UNCHS declaration. Environmental and cultural components play a secondary role while safety concern is insignificant. Key issues include dissatisfaction with high rise living, social network disruption, billing concerns, customer base loss, limited open space and cultural displacement. Originality/value This study becomes significant in refreshing the literature on reasons affecting the rejection of relocations, reducing the empirical gap in Sri Lanka while addressing the methodological gaps using a mixed approach.