This policy brief presents the understanding gained in the course of a research programme between 2011-2013. It argues that for the resilience discourse to make a continued contribution to international aid, and in particular for the role of humanitarian action, a change in its direction is now needed. Key messages include:

The concept of resilience is at the centre of current debates in development, climate change adaptation and humanitarian aid. However, it is not clear what resilience is, or how it can or should be promoted during and after crises.
Although it seems self-evident that opportunities to build people’s resilience should be seized, a strong case would be needed to justify diverting humanitarian resources to that end.
Far more understanding is needed about what kind of support is most effective and how this can best be delivered.