Paper short abstract:

This paper presents the framework and initial analysis of research on the nature of NGO-led village development in Egypt. Aiming to comprehend its processes, actors, interventions and effects. In addition to the various perceptions of the government, the NGOs and the people of the development.

Paper long abstract:

Rural Egypt, where 57% of Egypt's population live (CAPMAS, 2017) is suffering from poverty (Müller-Mahn, 1998). Several measures have been taken towards poverty alleviation: the government on its side made several trials to enhance the rural situation, NGOs also have played a significant role in promoting rural development. However, despite the disappointing results and the rise in the poverty rate, as assessed by aggregate poverty measurement (CAPMAS, 2017) (Elnour, 2012), it is remarkable to witness the continuity of the development ideas implemented by or through NGOs. The general approach to village development appears to have institutionalized a specific set of procedures, with clear prioritization of physical over human development interventions. Finally, the intended beneficiaries' perspective is not highlighted in development planning. Further, because of the issues surrounding the availability of data and dissemination platforms, as well as the political sensitivity surrounding the discussion of poverty in Egypt, there is insufficient data around the subject and published research is mostly quantitative (McGann, 2007; Assaad & Rouchdy, 1999).

This paper is based on research which aims to unpack the nature of NGO-led village development, comprehending its various processes, actors, and its effects on the intended beneficiaries. The proposed overarching questions are: what is the role and impact of NGO-led rural development in Egypt? And what are the various perceptions of the actors to the development? This paper presents the initial findings and analysis from qualitative fieldwork, using in-depth semi-structured interviews with NGO managers, field workers, government officials, policy makers and the beneficiaries.