The Social Path to Reconstruction in Yemen: A Proposed Strategy for Addressing the Impacts of the Conflict (2015–2024)

Abstract

The present study focuses on the social dimension of reconstruction, with particular attention to rebuilding trust, repairing the social fabric, and fostering social cohesion in Yemen. The research adopts a qualitative methodology as the main framework for analyzing the current social situation. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of fifteen participants (community actors and staff members of non-governmental organizations directly engaged with the social context and the consequences of the war) drawn from six key governorates (Sana’a, Aden, Hadramawt, al-Mahra, Marib, and Abyan). These interviews were conducted during July 2024 using an open-ended interview guide. The findings reveal that the war in Yemen has severely damaged the social fabric, leading to the deterioration of social relations and the rise of intra-community conflicts. The conflict has also revived sub-national identities, such as tribal and regional affiliations, further dividing communities and weakening social cohesion. Additionally, displacement and worsening economic, social, and psychological conditions have exacerbated family disintegration and increased domestic and gender-based violence, resulting in a decline in family and community cohesion. This decline has fueled the rise of negative phenomena such as child marriage and child recruitment. To address these impacts, the research identifies urgent priorities for social reconstruction, including strengthening social cohesion, building trust within communities, empowering families, and addressing displacement effects through basic services and psychosocial support. A sustainable reconstruction strategy is proposed, emphasizing the need to monitor policy implementation, allocate resources effectively, rehabilitate social infrastructure, and ensure the continuity of educational activities in affected communities.