Participation in the Global South

Giving meaning back to participation in development projects

For a long time, participation was seen as a universal solution for development. Community management models were promoted at all levels, whether in public services or natural resource management, without considering local specifics or the willingness of the affected communities to participate.

The application of this standard model has yielded mixed results. Many projects have not produced the expected outcomes.

The participation we advocate involves an active partnership with local actors. We first identify their real needs. We then align these with the goals of institutions and/or project funders at the national or supranational level. From there, we define participation methods that make sense for everyone involved.

We then deploy our expertise in designing and facilitating participatory processes with the same transparency and sincerity.

Our approach thus fosters trust and long-term engagement from local actors.