Paper short abstract:

This paper unpacks decolonizing development in Southeast Asia, drawing on firsthand experience & critical theory. It exposes power imbalances in aid dynamics, advocating for local agency & knowledge in fostering community-driven, sustainable initiatives.

Paper long abstract:

This research examines the complexities of decolonizing development in Southeast Asia, particularly in Vietnam and Cambodia. This study provides an insider-outsider perspective based on the author's firsthand experience as a student volunteer working with regional NGOs. It analyzes power dynamics within development practices and their implications on diverse stakeholders ranging from international donors to local beneficiaries, shedding light on the complexities of development work. Adopting a critical development studies perspective, the research utilizes postcolonial theory and decoloniality to challenge Eurocentric approaches and advocate for the importance of local contexts and perspectives. It prioritizes agency, participation, and knowledge production as crucial elements in fostering a more equitable and sustainable development landscape.

Incorporating the perspectives of local communities, government officials, and international organizations, the research ensures a comprehensive understanding of decolonizing development. Case studies and comparative analyses from different regions within Vietnam and Cambodia provide a nuanced understanding of the variations and lessons learned. The study also explores the intersectionality of power dynamics, considering how factors like gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status intersect with the decolonization process, ensuring inclusivity and addressing potential disparities within communities.

Further, the research critically examines the dichotomy between short-term solutions provided by external donors and long-term, community-driven approaches. By analyzing how contrasting strategies affect the autonomy, effectiveness, and sustainability of development initiatives, this research provides practical insights for navigating the complex power dynamics in Southeast Asian development. It addresses immediate challenges and proposes community-driven solutions that foster long-term, locally grounded initiatives.