While ongoing fighting and the plight of displaced people in camps across North West Pakistan continue to draw
worldwide attention, international aid agency World Vision says dignified aid must be directed towards helping the hundreds of thousands of people displaced in 'host communities' within the conflict
zone.
Small distributions and home deliveries to host families and shelters –not the camps – have become World Vision's focus in this crisis. But this targeted approach brings
with it logistical, timing and security issues.
In the midst of local animosities and political conflicts, World Vision admits that it is going to be a very tough operation, but one that is
much needed.
'World Vision has built strong relationships in the communities of North West Frontier Province over several years. Our significant and effective response to the 2005
earthquake has inspired a degree of trust which has allowed us to enter this fragile area,' said Graham Strong, World Vision Country Director for Pakistan. 'We recognise that what the displaced want
most is to retain their dignity during this extraordinary crisis, but – culturally - there's little dignity in a refugee camp or mass feeding depot. Our tailored, personal method for providing
aid protects the fundamental cultural need for honour and dignity,' added Strong.
As the first responder in the conflict zone in Buner district, World Vision launched an ambitious
distribution of basic survival items to families scattered around the region. World Vision's concern is the limited capacity of host communities to support a 30-35% population increase that has
occurred in just over a week. 'Imagine the chaos if 30 people arrived on your doorstep, and 30 more on the doorstep of every house in your neighbourhood," said the Country Director.
In the short term, World Vision plans to support host families and communities by providing food supplies, and longer term shelter opportunities, as well as helping families to access education and
health care.
World Vision has long term plans too. After the 2005 earthquake, World Vision committed to providing those affected with community-driven development and livelihoods projects.
The organisation is planning to apply a similar approach in Buner, assuring community participation and ownership.
-Ends-
For further updates, visuals and coordination of media
interviews please contact: Syed Haider Ali, Senior Communications Officer, World Vision Pakistan Cell: + 92 345-8555-099
Or: Rienk van Velzen, MEER Communications Director
Cell: + 31 6 5183 2040 or Pakistan Cell: + 92 344 5888 815
Spokesperson Graham Strong, Country Director World Vision Pakistan
[ Any views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not of Reuters. ]
Soldiers keep guard inside the UNHCR (United Nations High Commission for Refugees) Jalozai camp, where hundreds of families are seeking refuge from a military offensive in the Swat valley region, about ...
