Transforming Pathways from Vulnerability to Resilience among Internally Displaced Populations in Myanmar Using a Constructive Grounded Theory Approach

Background Following the Military coup in 2021, armed conflict, along with the recent earthquake, have exacerbated the vulnerabilities of displaced populations, leaving them with limited access to essential services and protection. Historically, support for IDPs has predominantly focused on immediate humanitarian needs, such as food, shelter, and medical assistance are crucial; they often frame IDPs solely as vulnerable individuals requiring aid, thereby neglecting opportunities to foster resilience within these communities. Objective To fill the gap in knowledge on how internally displaced persons (IDPS) in Myanmar navigate prolonged crises. This research aims to develop a grounded theory framework that shifts the narrative from vulnerability to resilience. Method A constructivist grounded theory study was conducted using a mix of purposive and snowball sampling approaches, conducting in-depth online and in-person interviews with 13 IDPs and 10 individuals from the IDP support network in Mon, Kayin, Kayah and Eastern Bago regions between December 2024 and March 2025. Participants were eligible for inclusion if they were at least 18 years old and currently residing in an IDP camp or working with IDPS. The interviews were voice-recorded, translated and transcribed. Data were analysed inductively through a multi-stage coding process that included initial, intermediate, and advanced coding, memo writing and constant comparative methods to develop a theoretical model of the process of resilience-building among IDPS in Myanmar. Results The study presents a grounded theory for transformation vulnerability to resilience through five interconnecting dimensions. Armed conflict based on political instability, climate change, disrupted communities through loss of homes and livelihood and forced them into hazardous situations. Fears of airstrikes and heavy weaponry, insecurity, along with economic hardship, have deepened the vulnerable situation. Factors including internal motivation to rebuild their lives, resistance and persistence to injustice, adaptability, and mental strength enabled displaced individuals to rebuild agency and dignity. A multi-level framework, comprising macro-level policy and infrastructure interventions, meso-level community action, and micro-level individual coping strategies, is essential for sustainable resilience. Furthermore, resilience was influenced by positive enablers (community support, indigenous knowledge, religious coping, collective leadership) and hindered by barriers (aid dependency, resource scarcity, selective aid). Conclusion This study provides grounded theory along with the key macro, meso, and micro-level resilience strategies, offering insights to improve current humanitarian approaches. This theoretical framework provides a reference for policymakers and INGOs in reducing vulnerability and building lasting resilience for IDPs in conflict zones like Myanmar