Review and Recommendations to Support Women- and Youth-Led/Serving Civil Society Capacity Strengthening

In response to the global imperative for International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) to enhance localization efforts in post-conflict communities, this Capstone project critically examined the role of local autonomy in driving sustainable development. Specifically, it focused on Mercy Corp's utilization of the Appreciative Self-Directed Pathway for Institutional Reflection & Empowerment (ASPIRE) tool in fostering local capacity within Liberia, a country characterized by rich ethnic diversity, abundant natural resources, and progressive advancements in women's rights despite the lingering effects of a 14-year civil war and environmental challenges.

This project assessed ASPIRE’s impact on civil society capacity strengthening in Liberia, with a specific focus on youth and women-led organizations. Through a methodical qualitative approach that included interviews with key stakeholders —ranging from donors, local Civil Society Organizations (CSO) in Liberia, to comparison INGOs and local NGOs— it aimed to offer a detailed analysis of ASPIRE's effectiveness in capacity building. The methodology also encompassed quantitative research techniques to ensure a holistic understanding of ASPIRE's contributions towards creating self-sufficient and sustainable community systems.

The significance of this Capstone lies in its potential to inform future INGO practices by highlighting localization’s importance in post-conflict settings. By analyzing the case of Liberia, the project not only contributed to the academic discourse on sustainable development and localization but also provided practical insights that could enhance the operational strategies of INGOs like Mercy Corp in similar developmental contexts. This endeavor underscore the critical need for empowering local communities to lead their development processes, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience.