During emergencies, it’s crucial to bridge the gap between what local people might want in terms of shelter and what humanitarian organisations can provide, explains Sultan Barakat, founding director of the Post-War Reconstruction Unit at the University of York, United Kingdom, in this audio interview with Imogen Mathers. But doing so takes time, tenacity and cultural sensitivity — ingredients often missing in war zones. Barakat gives examples of pragmatic new approaches — including phased grants and structural inspections — that have generated better housing while creating jobs. 

http://www.scidev.net/global/disasters/feature/shelter-after-disaster-facts-figures-spotlight.html

New approaches to building shelters sensitive to local cultures

SciDev.Net podcasts look at key global development issues and the ways in which science can have a positive impact on equitable and sustainable development and poverty reduction. 