O'Connor McCabe, Niamh (2023) How can International NGOs Navigate Power Dynamics in Order to Facilitate Genuine Participation? Bachelor thesis, Global Responsibility & Leadership (GRL).
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Abstract
This thesis explores the challenges faced by international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) in promoting genuine participation within participatory development processes. Drawing on critiques of deliberative democracy, the study examines how power dynamics can hinder participatory methods. The research highlights the importance of inclusive approaches and equal respect in deliberative processes and applies this to participatory development. Two sets of power imbalances are explored. Firstly, power imbalances between INGOs and benefactors are discussed, with an emphasis on epistemic injustice, inclusionary control effects of expectations. Secondly, power imbalances between benefactors and how these imbalances inhibit participation are explored by discussing the challenges of representing disadvantaged groups and ensuring these groups’ input is respected. Thirdly, recommendations are given, with an emphasis on the need to prioritise marginalised groups, avoiding epistemic objectification and viewing participation as an end in itself. Recommendations include flexible participation methods, gender mainstreaming and moderation. By analysing power dynamics and providing practical recommendations, this thesis contributes to the discourse on participatory development and facilitates the efforts of INGOs to foster genuine, transformative participation for sustainable development interventions.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
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| Name supervisor: | McKeown, M.C. |
| Date Deposited: | 12 Sep 2023 10:05 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Sep 2023 10:05 |
| URI: | https://campus-fryslan.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/295 |
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