Mapping normalcy through vernacular security-development in post-conflict North Waziristan

Abstract

ABSTRACT North Waziristan, one of the former tribal agencies of Pakistan, was brought to the spotlight largely by militancy and terrorism. After curtailing terrorism through the military offensive, the focus has been shifted to ‘bringing normalcy’ to the region. While situating normalcy as a manifest function of security and development, this study delves into contextualising the dynamism of the security-development nexus. This empirically driven research dwells upon the response of the development organisations towards the conflict-induced emergency situation as well as the securitisation of development in North Waziristan. The potential pitfalls of the nexus that can subsequently undermine normalcy have also been highlighted. The article emphasises that an anthropologically sensitive approach is important to avoid impasse in security-development and impart sustainability to the (new) normal being strived for the region. Based on a localised understanding, this research argues for a more integrated approach towards normalcy – rooted in vernacular security-development that is adequately adapted to this context. It is, therefore, concluded that cultural compatibility is crucial for the sustainability of normalcy – and by extension, peace ‎ – ‎in the region.