Central to this study was the assumption
that strong local social capital, coupled with
philosophies and practices by
international/external actors that embrace
local customs and value authentic
participation, have the potential to enhance
sustainable recovery of disaster-affected
individuals and communities (Berke, Kartez
& Wenger, 1993). This understanding has
been influenced by a capabilities framework,
which is an approach to development that
looks beyond material outcomes and
focuses on the role and import of human
freedom, mental and physical health, control
over one’s environment, and social
connection (Nussbaum, 2011). The
approach affirms the importance of the social
opportunities provided by governments and
civil society and their impacts on both
material and non-material functioning (Sen,
1999).
Inter