Short Abstract

This panel will explore how development outcomes can be measured during crises in the Anthropocene. It will focus on how impact can be evaluated during context of climate/natural emergencies, to amplify the voices of marginalised groups, and to protect those most vulnerable from such challenges.

Long Abstract

The crises of the Anthropocene disproportionately impact the poorest populations, particularly in the Global South. While policymakers struggle with mitigating the impacts of such crises, they also struggle with a second crisis: the crisis of evidence. Climate /natural emergencies make it significantly harder to measure development impacts and build evidence-based policies. Further, such crises challenge data collection processes, and reduce the agency of those most affected to voice their experiences and influence policy design.

This panel is planned as a workshop that will explore how impact can be measured during Anthropocene crises, to promote agency in low-resource settings. It will build on two case studies of successful evaluations conducted by the contributor: a national evaluation of India's rural development portfolio, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic; and a UNICEF-commissioned evaluation of a cash transfer programme, conducted in flood-affected Chin State, Myanmar.

The first part of the workshop will explore why measuring impact during Anthropocene crises is important, and which are the links between human agency and evidence-generation. The second part will highlight best practices/learning gleaned from practical engagement with amplifying marginalised voices during crises - ranging from innovative data collection methods during social distancing, to engaging ethically with research participants in disaster-affected areas. Further, it will highlight how citizen engagement with public policy can be ensured during crises, by invoking participatory approaches and democratising access - thereby enhancing human agency among vulnerable groups. The workshop will include various interactive elements like audience discussion, points of reflection, and short skill recaps.