The Youth Role in Enhancing Leadership for Flood Risk Management and Community Resilience in Hafar Al-Batin Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

Abstract

Hafar Al-Batin has experienced recurrent flooding, one of the most common natural disasters, which has caused significant damage to both lives and property. A key factor exacerbating the flood risk in the region has been a lack of public awareness. This research investigates the role of youth in enhancing flood risk management and strengthening community resilience in Hafar Al-Batin, aligning these efforts with the strategic goals of Saudi Vision 2030. It addresses a gap in the literature by broadening the understanding of youth leadership in disaster management, particularly in flood risk scenarios. The study offers a detailed analysis of how youth-driven initiatives contribute to community resilience in flood-prone areas. This is a critical contribution, as it highlights the often-overlooked role of young people in resilience discussions. The research involved semi-structured interviews and a thorough review of grey literature, gathering insights from seven participants employed in Civil Defense, the Municipality, and NGOs. Hart’s Ladder of Participation was also used as a framework to assess youth engagement in the region. The findings reveal that youth in Hafar Al-Batin play a vital role in leading community-based flood risk management efforts. They are instrumental in raising awareness, mobilizing resources, and building resilience, showing strong alignment with the national priorities set forth in Vision 2030.