Human Security and Conflict Dynamics: A Case Study of Megadevelopment Projects in Sindh

Abstract

The development and growth in contemporary times is steered by mega-development projects across the world. However, it needs to be seen if mega-development projects undermine human security conditions in particular societies or regions and, hence, lead to conflict-oriented social interactions. This study relates human security discourse to megadevelopment projects in Sindh and goes on to explore the conflict-development nexus in the province. Keeping the qualitative nature of the study in mind, field visits to District Ghotki and Karachi in Sindh Province were conducted in February 2023. The visits allowed the gathering of data through in-depth interviews, focused group discussions, and community engagement. The findings revealed an indigenous understanding of human security along with a comprehensive picture of the conflict dynamics in the province. It also came to light that mega-development projects are having detrimental effects on the human security landscape and, consequently, enhancing conflictual tendencies amongst the population. Moreover, the role of government and civil society is below par, as far as megadevelopment-induced human security issues and the contentious conflict-development nexus are concerned.