Peacebuilding through Development Aid Projects: Critical Analysis of South Waziristan, Pakistan

Post-conflict peacebuilding is not a direct path to achieving prosperity; however, it has become a highly significant issue in the merged districts of Pakistan, particularly in South Waziristan, following years of militancy, terrorism, and military operations by Pakistani forces. In this context, the role of development aid projects has gained broader acknowledgment in post-development peacebuilding, where organisations and implementing partners have filled the gap through development assistance projects. The objective of the study is to explore the effectiveness and weaknesses of development aid projects toward peace and prosperity in the merged districts of South Waziristan. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving interviews with 50 respondents, including 12 government and NGO officials. The findings reveal that development projects engaged local communities in the peace process by delivering essential social and economic services to the affected population, contributing to sustainable peace and development. However, limited professional capacity among both government and non-governmental officials hindered the effectiveness of peacebuilding initiatives. The influence of local elders also notably shaped project objectives. Institutional fragmentation and gaps in peacebuilding efforts remain critical challenges that require reassessment to foster lasting peace in the region. JEL Classification Codes: I01, M02, L03, R04, R41, R42, R43, R44, R45, C5