<![CDATA[Post-disaster resettlement is typically carried out to minimize disaster risks and enhance community security, but policies focusing heavily on administrative efficiency may ignore the social and cultural aspects of the impacted populations. This research investigates the post-tsunami situation in Gampong Pulo, Nagan Raya Regency, Aceh, with an emphasis on the community's self-reliance and the revival of village governance after a failed administrative relocation initiative. The aim of this study is to explore how community-led efforts emerged in response to imposed relocation and how these efforts contributed to recovery following the disaster. This research uses a qualitative descriptive case study method. Information was gathered through comprehensive interviews with residents, village leaders, and local traditional figures, along with reviews of policy documents. The analysis of the data was conducted using an interactive framework that included stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results show that the administrative relocation initiative was misaligned with the community's social, cultural, and economic realities, which resulted in backlash and social unrest. Once the initiative was canceled, the community displayed significant collective action by rebuilding local governance, social structures, and economic functions based on collaboration and utilizing local resources. The study highlights that participatory and community-focused strategies are crucial for effective and sustainable recovery after disasters. Acknowledging local institutions and bolstering community-led actions are vital for fostering long-term resilience and effective governance at the village.]]>
