12. Introduction to NGO Operations and Local Knowledge
The chapter explores the limitations of traditional relief operations by NGOs in disaster-affected areas, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging local knowledge and the socio-cultural intricacies of communities. It highlights the need for a holistic view of reconstruction that integrates not only infrastructure but also the social fabric and lived experiences of affected populations. The discussion revolves around how external interventions can sometimes undermine traditional systems, leading to loss of autonomy and further vulnerability among communities.
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Sections
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2Case Study: Hudhud Cyclone-Affected Areas
The section discusses the shortcomings of NGO relief efforts in...
What we have learnt
- NGOs often overlook local knowledge and traditional coping mechanisms during disaster relief.
- Relief operations can unintentionally undermine community resilience and social structures.
- Reconstruction efforts should be holistic, addressing both physical infrastructure and social relationships.
Key Concepts
- -- Victim Culture
- A mindset created by external aid that emphasizes community failures without recognizing local capacities.
- -- Lived Space
- The idea that homes are not just physical structures but also embody social relationships and cultural meanings.
- -- Agencydriven Construction
- A reconstruction model that focuses on standardization and replication of housing without considering local needs.
- -- Bottomup Process
- An approach that involves engaging communities in decision-making and adapting interventions to their specific needs.
Additional Learning Materials
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