Capacity development in pursuit of social change: an examination of processes and outcomes. Issue 4 (19th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aantjes, Carolien Jeanette; Burrows, Dave; Armstrong, Russell
• Is Part Of: Development in practice. Volume 32:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: 536
• Page End: 550
• Publication Date: 2022-05-19
• Subjects: Civil society -- HIV/AIDS and sexual health -- rights -- capacity development -- partnership -- NGOs; Technical assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; 338.91091724
• DOI: 10.1080/09614524.2021.1937547
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-4524

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Understanding "what works" for capacity development support in an international development setting remains an important area for operational research. This mixed-methods study explored this topic within a global programme that supports civil society organisations in fifteen countries to secure the health and human rights of marginalised and underserved populations. Taking a complex adaptive systems approach, and seeking to understand the phenomena from the "receiver" perspective, the study found that the programme fostered the development of four interconnected domains of capacity through a reflexive, user-led approach. These capacity gains could be linked, although not causally, to important programmatic achievements for the programme's focus populations.