In order to gain a general understanding of the social and economic conditions under which rural communities operate in Balochistan, the SEU has undertaken a number of studies and surveys. These include specific studies in the pilot areas of the IRLDP, as well as a more general survey of the highlands of Balochistan as a whole in order to understand the larger social, economic and ecological context of the region.
The emphasis placed on the socio-economic research in the IRLDP stems from the recognition that in the past a great number of projects have failed because of lack of consideration for the prevailing social and economic realities.
R Too often in the past, faulty assumptions, stereotypes, and generalizations about rural communities have been the basis of many projects and policies, leading to inappropriate interventions and goals. A poor diagnosis of problems has frequently led to faulty design, and the establishment of inappropriate or overly ambitious targets, with unsustainable objectives. |
This research component was considered as particularly important at the beginning of the project. But it has also accompanied each stage of project activities, supporting and contributing to the implementation and monitoring of the project initiatives. Such research aimed essentially at helping project personnel of IRLDP:
· understand the social and economic context within which local populations operate;
· identify local needs and development priorities;
· build upon the knowledge, know-how and resources already possessed by the rural populations;
· monitor and follow-up the situation through identification of changes and new trends, especially those stimulated and brought about by the project itself.
