Resources

Summary

In the aftermath of a disaster, addressing immediate basic needs is crucial, but the manner in which humanitarian response is conducted significantly influences community recovery. Engaging with local markets post-disaster can stimulate recovery by injecting cash, enhancing access to finance, creating economic opportunities, and safeguarding social networks. However, the most effective strategy involves pre-crisis investments in long-term programs that enhance local capacity, strengthen networks, and establish disaster-response plans. To maximize long-term impact, donors and agencies should analyze and collaborate with local markets, fund economic rebuilding concurrently with basic-needs response, provide flexible funding, integrate disaster preparedness into development programs, and document the impact of market-based interventions on disaster recovery speed and sustainability.