Humanitarian crisis and sustainable development: perspectives and preferences of internally displaced persons in the northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

This study seeks to contribute to the knowledge of linkages between humanitarian actions in conflict situations and sustainable development. We analysed data generated from qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with encamped and self-settled internally displaced victims (IDPs) of the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeastern Nigeria. Our analysis searched for themes that summarise their preferences and desires of durable solutions. Overall, the majority of the IDPs were more inclined to local integration or resettlement than return. More than males, female IDPs were likely to cite personal experience of violence as a reason for rejecting voluntary repatriation. Feelings of vulnerability, experience of violence and hope of economic and social empowerment were major reasons given in support of local integration or resettlement. Self-settled IDPs are more disposed to returning to their places of origin than encamped IDPs. The need to rebuild livelihoods and restore social and community networks were the major factors participants associated with the choice of return. Beliefs in divine destiny, lack of trust and confidence in the government were dominant views expressed by participants who were indifferent about durable solutions. There is a sense that cultural androcentric norms which give men the power to make decisions for the family shape decision-making even in emergency situations. We conclude that, regardless of their preferences about durable solutions, IDPs have long-term needs that can only be provided if humanitarian actions are integrated into the overall development agenda and programmes of governments.