Abstract
The Swat valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was affected by a protracted conflict and super flood between 2007 and 2010. This paper explores local perceptions of the Swat response which, presented complex challenges for rehabilitation and livelihood recovery of affected communities. This study examines local perceptions of how NGOs and government response addressed livelihood revival needs of communities in Swat. It addresses questions relating to the nature and dynamics of the Conflict and Floods in Swat, the issues and the lessons from post‐disaster relief and development. This study employs a case study approach involving qualitative research methods. Primary data was collected in eleven villages and localities from September 2010 to February 2011. Respondents included beneficiaries and non‐beneficiaries, government representatives, community leaders and program officials involved in livelihood interventions. This study identifies the shortcomings associated with targeting of the response as well as the types of response offered in the form of beneficiary selection and elite capture of aid. In addition, the response was affected through lack of coordination of relief, recovery and development programs and weak institutional support and non‐prioritization of local needs. The study recommends that for effective development policy and practice local needs and ownership of response and recovery programs needs to encourage and fostered.
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