Through community eyes: the transition of international organizations from community aid to development in postconflict Sierra Leone

Abstract

Through community eyes: The transition of international organizations from community aid to development in postconflict Sierra LeoneSierra Leone experienced an 11-year civil war, brutalizing its people and destroying its communities. With the cessation of violence, international organizations helped to secure peace, deliver aid and supplies, and afterward, assist with development projects. This grounded theory study, which aims to understand the role these organizations played from the viewpoint of community members in two communities, posits that community members' regard of international organizations lessened as their efforts transitioned from securing the peace and relief efforts to aid for development. Highlighted are the successes and challenges of this work and a broad discussion of implications and recommendations.