Autonomy and aid projects: Why do we care?
Muñiz Castillo, Mirtha R. (2007). Autonomy and aid projects: Why do we care?. n/a.
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Author Muñiz Castillo, Mirtha R. Title Autonomy and aid projects: Why do we care? Publication Date 2007 Place of Publication n/a Publisher n/a Pages n/a Abstract This paper is based on a conceptual framework that defines autonomy as the capacity to choose and achieve the life that one values. It is a combined capability that requires a personal ability and also favourable conditions in the structural contexts. The paper focuses on a specific micro-level context: an aid project. Individuals�۪ experiences of autonomy evolve in their interaction with project staff, non-government organisations or donors. This means that practices and relationships, not only activities, are important to understand the exercise of autonomy during the project cycle. This paper explores some features of four bilateral projects financed by Luxembourg in Nicaragua and El Salvador, in order to understand the mechanisms how projects could influence individual autonomy. The analysis suggests that assumptions about what is best for people, which channels work best, what is participation, or what is a community can affect individual autonomy and the capacity of groups to pursue common goals. Appropriately designed and managed projects can provide people the opportunities to exercise their autonomy so that they are better prepared to take initiatives and face future challenges. Identifying autonomy as an explicit development objective can help people to be able to promote significant change and increase well-being in their lives. Keywords: autonomy, capabilities, project evaluation Copyright Holder UNU-MERIT Copyright Year 2007 Copyright type Creative commons -
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