Participation and Impact: Lessons from DFID’s Participatory Approaches Evaluation
This DFID-funded evaluation (2001–2004) assessed how participatory approaches were applied across development programmes to enhance inclusion, accountability, and effectiveness. Conducted by Development Focus and partner organisations, the study synthesised global experiences in participatory planning, governance, poverty reduction, and service delivery. Findings demonstrate that when communities and stakeholders are meaningfully engaged, projects achieve greater sustainability, transparency, and ownership. The report provides evidence-based recommendations for institutionalising participation in policy and programme design.