The Role Of Faith-Based Organizations In Flood Relief In Pakistan: Insights From Al-Khidmat Foundation

Abstract

Faith-based organizations (FBOs) have gained recognition as primary responders to the disasters. This study situated in Pakistan is a timely endeavor to critically evaluates the mechanism of flood relief by Al-Khidmat Foundation (AKF). Employing Kreps and Bosworth’s (1993) model of disaster, organization, and role enactment, deductive methodological insights on preparedness, response and recovery strategies are highlighted. A realist-ontological framework was used to get the primary and secondary data of AKF. In-depth Interviews were conducted with 11 experts working at administrative, infrastructure and relief departments of AKF. Secondary data was obtained from AKF’s annual report (2022-2023) on flood response. document analysis and thematic analysis were the techniques to analyze the data. The results demonstrates that AKF being socially inclusive, locally grounded and culturally relevant is one of the most trusted charity organizations engaged in various activities including helping flood victims in Pakistan. AKF provided 15 billion aid through partnerships with more than 100 groups and contributions from professional and student volunteers. Organizational preparedness is ensured through risk identification, strategic planning, resource mobilization through 50 disaster management units, and community awareness in high-risk areas. The recovery operations entailed locating and rescuing 56,220 individuals and relocating them to 61 tent camps for sustenance. Their flood recovery initiatives encompassed the reconstruction of 10,000 residences. As part of their mitigation strategies, 300 educational and religious edifices, farmers’ training, the provision of skill development and educational resources, as well as mental and spiritual assistance remain most effective. It is found that AKF’s response and management mechanism though providing relief to the flood victims beyond religious affiliations at large, yet it is not developed on integrated model of disaster management. AKF lacks vulnerable-specific systematic response mechanism. Only medical services for aged, ill population and pregnant women are provided. Newborn and children’s specific need-based interventions with holistic approach are not found. Similarly, the study did not find any specific interventions when it comes to the inherent risks such as disaster and security hazards particularly for separated children and transgender persons. The study recommends brief policy guidelines with a particular focus on training on adaptation and mitigation to reduce the risks involved in disasters.