Post-Catastrophe Reconstruction Strategies Lessons from Global Cases for The Reconstruction of Gaza

Abstract

The current changes on the ground in Gaza during A the ongoing war call for urgent and comprehensive efforts to m develop strategic frameworks and post-war plans that are in line r with the unique reality of Palestinian society, particularly in s Gaza, while taking into account cultural, social, historical, and o economic factors. Understanding contemporary reconstruction [ strategies has prompted researchers to review and analyze a a range of post-disaster recovery projects initiated and completed c locally and globally over the past decade: the Jenin refugee camp w in Palestine, the Nahr al-Bared refugee camp in Lebanon, and Japan's experience. This analysis aims to derive lessons and t avoid mistakes made by previous planners, particularly in the p areas of community participation, social justice, urban resilience, a and sustainability. It also addresses critical challenges f confronting decision-makers—such as land tenure and social r cohesion, cultural heritage preservation, and the fulfillment of population needs—serving as a foundation for developing a comprehensive post-war reconstruction strategy for Gaza. The T study followed a comparative analytical methodology for both local and global cases. It examines the phenomena and processes r these cases underwent at all stages, from the disaster and t reconstruction to the aftermath of their occupancy by the F affected population. It also discusses the most important criteria n adopted by these cases, compares them, and analyzes their u results through three models: Building Back Better (BBB), r Culture in City Reconstruction and Recovery (CURE), and L Reconstruction of Beirut's Southern Suburbs (WAAD). A set of r recommendations was reached for the best strategies that can be a relied upon to avoid the negatives facing these projects at all their various stages, and to ensure effective and sustainable b reconstruction in Gaza after the conflict.