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Participatory action research: working beyond disaster toward prevention

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Abstract

Drawing on qualitative analyses of post-disaster effects on vulnerable rural communities in Pakistan, this paper puts forward a participatory action research stance as a next step or approach toward prevention. This approach stands in contrast to the current post-disaster relief model commonly practiced by many non-government organizations (NGOs). The participatory action research perspective was used to examine the qualitative evidence and provide a framework to effectively work with rural vulnerable communities. Qualitative analyses documented community wisdom and ideas toward prevention which, when potentially partnered with resources offered by NGOs, could dramatically reduce their vulnerability to natural disasters.

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Correspondence to Hassan Raza.

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Raza, H. Participatory action research: working beyond disaster toward prevention. Nat Hazards 91, 117–131 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-017-3114-x

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