Beyond disasters

"The Indian Ocean tsumani, the Kashmir earthquake, Hurricane Katrina--these disasters affected millions of people and captured the world's attention, elicting some of the most generous humanitarian responses ever. Unfortunately, we now face a future in which disasters will become more common, more powerful, and--in many cases--more deadly. With increasing populations, climate change, and environmental destruction, our communities may be at greater risk than ever before. When disasters occur in conflict zones, the devastation is compounded. If aid is not distributed fairly among disaster and conflict survivors, new rifts can emerge. Relief groups must be prepared to tread a fine line as they work alongside armed militaries and rebel factions. But there can be an unexpected silver lining: although disasters harm people and communities in conflict areas, the cooperation and goodwill following these events may jolt the political landscape, bringing renewed opportunities for peace. Relief and reconstruction efforts can build trust among combatants, ultimately even bringing conflicts to an end. This report examines three unique situations in conflict-affected areas following disasters, focusing on Indonesia's Aceh province and Sri Lanka, both affected by the 2004 tsunami, and on the long-contested region of Kashmir, devastated by the 2005 earthquake. The experiences of these regions yield important lessons that clarify the connections between disasters, conflict, development, and peacemaking.