Community-Led Development in Practice

This edited volume explores community-led development, showcasing diverse practices through case studies from over 30 authors. It offers insights for funders, practitioners, and researchers interested in grassroots change and inclusive strategies.

Community-Led Development in Practice explores the evolving landscape of the international development sector, particularly the increasing emphasis on centering communities in development efforts. Despite a growing consensus on this approach, there remains a lack of clarity regarding what it truly means to center communities and how to effectively implement such practices. This edited volume seeks to fill that gap by offering insights into community-led practices across various sociocultural and organizational contexts.

The book features contributions from over 30 international authors, including seasoned practitioners and respected scholars in the field. Through a series of case studies, it critically examines grassroots initiatives, national organizations, and large-scale international operations, revealing both the similarities and differences in community-led practices based on the size and reach of the organizations involved. The case studies highlight the transformative processes initiated by these practices, showcasing the profound impact they can have on communities.

Organized around nine key dimensions, the volume delves into essential aspects of community-led development, such as participation, local resource utilization, sustainability, and accountability. It serves as a valuable resource for funders, practitioners, and organizations seeking alternative narratives of change that challenge dominant paradigms. Additionally, it offers insights for policymakers, students, and researchers interested in community development and international development theory, making it a comprehensive guide for understanding and implementing community-led initiatives.