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Paper short abstract:

This paper presents a framework and model that supports individuals to understand our individuality, intrinsically moving away from individualism into a realm of connection. A realm where we become agentive economic agents with a mindset that enables us to actively pursue individual and collective self-identified and mutually agreed valuable lives in a culture of economic well-being.

Paper long abstract:

Agentive Economic Agents – A Mindset for the Emergence of a Culture of Economic Well-being to Face the Big Crisis of our Era.

Social solidarity, grassroots approaches, and collective action

Keywords: Agency, Mindset, Culture

Abstract

The capabilities approach has been instrumental in the creation of the concept of an economy of well-being, which shifts from narrow economic indicators to expansive considerations of human flourishing, multidimensional indicators, dynamism, pluralism, and participation. At the core of the capabilities approach we find the expansion of the freedom and opportunities of individuals to live valuable lives. The centrality of the individual has often been taken as an individualistic (self-reliance) approach, somehow leaving aside the important role of the individuality (expression of true self with autonomy and interconnectedness to others) of the individual. In developed economies, so heavily influenced by the markets, the media, and the overall interplay of various systems, we live by the narratives created by others for us. Narratives that tell us who we should be and what we should value. Empirical research in the Netherlands demonstrates that who we are, what values we intrinsically hold, and how we construct our thoughts are not top of mind for most individuals. This lack of understanding constitutes a major source of unfreedoms, limiting the individual and collective ability to define what constitutes a life worth living and thus limiting our ability to represent our views in social and political spheres. This can be seen in the decreased levels of overall well-being and life satisfaction in well-established liberal democracies, with an institutional framework that should enable individuals to live fulfilled lives. We have become economic agents with an outsourced agency, living by adaptive preferences in dysfunctional systems that we have passively created with our tacit acceptance.

This paper presents a framework and model to serve as a pathway to becoming agentive economic agents. It is presented as a mandala in an expanding cycle, where the individuality of the individual, and its agency, is at the core of systemic change and values are the leverage points. It firstly focuses on the individual mindset where with the exercise of freedom, responsibility, and agency, we can understand our individuality in terms of our multi-identity and dynamic self, values, mental models, and individual context. Subsequently, it expands to the collective and the creation of a culture of economic well-being weaving individual mindsets together through the understanding of our similarities and the respect of our differences while understanding the specific collective context and its dynamism. Both mindsets and cultures are in a continuous state of evolution and thus continuously influencing individual and collective becoming.

The mandala enables us to understand and embed our individual and collective narratives to construct new realities for the emergence of a culture of economic well-being, where individual’s autonomy, competence, and relatedness provide the intrinsic motivation to act and face the social, environmental, and energy crises of our era. The framework supports individuals to understand our individuality, intrinsically moving away from individualism into a realm of connection with those around us. The better we understand the self, the better we can understand the other. It is from a place of connection with the self, that we can connect with the “other” (people and planet) and with the transitional needs of our contexts in crisis. This is also demonstrated by empirical research conducted in the Netherlands where upon understanding our individuality, narratives change from linear, individual, and passive to connected, collective, and proactive. Shared values naturally emerge in collective contexts. Our modes of intrinsic behavior go beyond self-interest. We can become agentive economic agents.

This paper does not deny the major role that institutions and organizations play in the top-down facilitating, constructing, and sustaining an economy of well-being that can face the crisis of our era. However, this paper seeks to present a grassroots and bottom-up approach for the emergence of a culture of economic well-being. An approach that highlights the important role of and provides an actionable path for the individual in discovering our individuality and becoming agentive economic agents. Agentive economic agents who exercise our freedom and responsibility to identify and actively and resiliently pursue our valuable lives. Our commitment to constructing our well-being, and our solidarity and engagement in pursuing the well-being of others through our collective actions. Actions that can create the resilient institutions and organizations needed for the creation of a culture of economic well-being.

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Paper short abstract:

This paper identifies internal and external factors that influenced the individual reincorporation instead of collective path to the economic inclusion of the FARC-EP ex-combatants. We argue that the situation is partially explained by a group preference, caused by the emerging individual agency after demobilisation. Based on the ethnographic method, we address this empirical descriptive problem.

Paper long abstract:

The collective approach was one of the original contributions to the economic inclusion of the FARC-EP ex-combatants. Based on collective capabilities building, solidarity economies were intended to become a sustainable and participatory alternative in rural areas. However, six years later, the path chosen was predominantly individual. This paper identifies internal and external factors that influenced this decision. We argue that the situation is partially explained by a group preference, caused by the emerging individual agency after demobilisation. Additionally, the design of the policy of disbursing money simply to the individual, rather than incentivizing the collective agency, could contributed to the results. Based on the ethnographic method in three reincorporation spaces, two rural and one urban, we address this empirical descriptive problem. Finally, we explain that individual capabilities are being developed simultaneously in various settings of a hybrid nature, formal and informal employment, individual-collective projects, and formalised and non-formalised cooperatives.

Given the novelty of the case in the country, we established two research questions. The first one was empirical-descriptive: How is setting the socio-economic reintegration process of the FARC-EP ex-combatants in one rural and one urban areas? The second question, an attempt of empirical-explanatory analysis in the cases studied: What factors could have influenced the ex-combatants' decision to choose an individual path over a collective one? To address these questions, we selected three case studies with collective and individual projects, two rural NAR, Mutatá and Venus, and the city of Medellín.

The fieldwork was based on the ethnographic method, while the discussion of results obeys to the capabilities approach, an interpretative framework for understanding how individuals build collective capabilities. This original research aims to contribute to fill the gap at the intersection between inclusive peacebuilding, collective development, and the institutional design of DDR programmes. Additionally, it contributes to the theoretical model of group and collective capabilities, which are instrumentally important for expanding individual capabilities. This research does not intend to generalise the results, but rather shed light on a poorly studied phenomenon of collective reincorporation devised on social and solidarity economies. We recognised the reincorporation areas and cities in Colombia are diverse in their spatial consolidation, in the externalities due to climate, geographic location, pre-existing and contiguous rural-urban population centres, and the illegal actors that circulate near these territories.

The paper presents a literature review, focusing mainly on three benchmark studies, one monitoring inform and two case studies focused on the FARC-EP cooperatives framework. Then, we explain the method, methodology, ethical considerations, and data management. The next two sections pick out the alternatives, firstly, collective productive projects, and the dynamic relationship between collective action and collective agency. Secondly, it unpacks individual productive projects, and showcases why, although individual, the projects build group capabilities. The third section discusses how the social and economic dimensions are embedded and, to some extent, how the institutional architecture has encouraged the individual over the collective path. The last section underlines the security and development nexus beyond the securitisation of development, and concludes with some policy and research tracks.

Finally, socioeconomic reincorporation is taking place in the midst of a renewed conflict in territories where development is incipient. Although the reintegration and reincorporation pathways have been highly successful, according to the ARN, the overall 75 per cent of individuals have remained in legality, recruitment by illegal groups does not end, and illicit economies are real options for people to combat their lack of capabilities. Like the mythical beast Hydra of Lerna, territorial conflicts persist and reproduce, creating a perpetual cycle of violence. The Colombian case underlines the great challenge of employ preventive actions to dissuade individuals from being forced to enlist in armed groups as their limited option for overcome poverty and exclusion. Delays in the implementation of the first point of the peace agreement, Comprehensive Rural Reform, means that the promise of rural development and territorial peace has yet to be fulfilled in many regions.

There are two tracks for future research regarding a collective approach. The first is the updating of the census of FARC-EP ex-combatants by the Colombian national government to scaling-up the productive projects. The missing unified and national data impedes to identify the factors of success or failure, which reduces empiric evidence –albeit valuable– to small case studies. The second is a comparative analysis of social and solidarity economies adopted in post-conflict recovery. This article contributes to filling the gap in the literature on peacebuilding, collective development, human capabilities, in both individual and group approaches, to collective action.

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Paper short abstract:

Alternative macro-economic systems of ancient times such as erstwhile civilizations in modern day India, China and South-East Asia were based on a common set of behavioral principles broadly defined as Dharma. This paper will provide a qualitative framework that incorporates Dharma, beyond the contours of the state and the market, highlighting its role in capability expansion and sustainability.

Paper long abstract:

Macro-economic answers to the question of sustainable economic development have been largely focused on tweaking current models to suit top-down prescriptive solutions. While these are noteworthy, the criticisms of the macro-economic frameworks, which include excessive indulgence on profit maximisation, inherent pricing biases (Bernstein, 2019) and market mismatches between supply and demand, persist without any fundamental change.

The relevance of alternative macro-economic systems of ancient times and their influences on life have been a much admired but seldom studied area. Many researchers have attempted to understand indigenous ways of life through a historical lens and have constructed theories around them. While the historical lens offers an informative perspective, the key to making it useful is to draw linkages to contemporary challenges and learn appropriate lessons from it. The application of such lessons centres around establishing the necessary connections between alternative economic systems, their socio-economic worldview, and the relevance of such systems to modern day challenges such as sustainability and human development.

Alternative economic system is a broad term, but here we will take it in its narrow meaning in the context of erstwhile civilizations in modern day India, China and South-East Asia among others, which were based on a common set of principles of behaviour broadly defined as Dharma. They also include the economic systems in indigenous kingdoms such as Maurya, Chola, Pallava, Pandya, Khmer, Vijayanagar, Srivijaya empires , which were thriving in the common era prior to being colonized in the 17th century by western nations. All these systems are connected by the umbrella of Dharmanomics (Balasubramanian, 2022) which has been the pillar of sustainable development for thousands of years. Dharmanomics is defined as the economic philosophy that uses the foundation of Dharma to supplement both the state and market in economic activities. The economic system elaborated in texts such as Kautilya’s Arthashastra, Niti Sastra and other scriptures, which was prevalent in these empires, provides the basis for the idea of Dharmanomics. Western capitalism has an incentive structure based upon the three Ps: (1) prices determined by market forces, (2) a profit-and-loss system of accounting and (3) private property rights. In all of these three buckets, there is no inherent incentive to have a sustainable world that encompasses and protects nature. Therein lies the essence of Dharmanomics and its fundamental difference from western capitalism.

The idea of Dharmanomics is underpinned by the concept of a Dharma-based life at its core. A shloka from Manusmriti (Ekvastra, n.d.) states that dharma is defined by patience, forgiveness, control over mind, non-stealing, cleanliness of body, mind, and soul, restrain on senses, proper use of intellect, proper knowledge, honesty, and control over anger. Another shloka from Mahabharata (Wisdomlib, n.d.) says “Non-violence, Truth, Absence of anger, Charity, these four qualities constitute eternal Dharma”. In simpler terms, as the phrase ‘Dharayate iti Dharma’ connotes, ‘Dharma sustains, integrates and holds everything together’.

Dharma forms the basis of value systems in the four major oriental traditions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. Sri Aurobindo says that Dharma in the Indian conception is not merely the good, the right, the morally correct, the just and the ethical; it also concerns the whole government of all the relations of humans with other beings, with Nature, with God, considered from the point of view of a divine principle working itself out in forms and laws of action, forms of the inner and outer life, orderings of relations of every kind in the world.

Dharmic economies are defined as economies that keep Dharma as foundational to their economic philosophy. These economies use Dharma in addition to the state and the market to formulate their economic prescriptions for their societies. Most of this integration of Dharma is done in an organic way rather than a structured approach. The components of Dharma, mentioned in the quotations above, are integral to the ‘way of life’ in these economies. They are not only in alignment with the ‘leave no one behind’ principle of sustainable development goals but are also capability enhancing, as Dharmic principles are fundamentally based on mutual respect and harmony.

This paper will propose a framework for analysing economies on the basis of Dharma by examining the key components of Dharma and dwelling on their influence on the functioning of the economy. This would include providing an overall structural framework and understanding of the Dharmic economies with examples of their practical functioning in today’s Bharat (India). Central to this framework would be the notion of Dharma being a complement to the role of the state and markets in economic activity. It will also present a mapping of the components of Dharma onto different capability domains, through a study of their relationship with the different dimensions of wellbeing freedom. Questions that we intend to address include: what makes the idea of Dharma distinct in a macro-economic context? How does it map onto different capability domains? Intrinsically, how does the idea of Dharma integrate different capability domains?

Further, we will be addressing how this framework, and the Dharmic way of life, intrinsically help to address many current macro-economic challenges such as sustainable development and climate change. For example, how do the components of the Dharmic way of life help solve the issue of sustainability from a behavioural lens? What are some practical examples of living communities that are illustrations of such a solution? Finally, we will show how Dharma-based perspectives naturally lead economies on a path of sustainable human development as they encompass living practices that are in harmony with all beings and nature. Thus the main goal of the research paper is to provide a qualitative framework that incorporates the idea of Dharma, beyond the contours of the state and the market, and highlights its ability to intrinsically address issues pertaining to capability expansion and sustainability.

References

Balasubramanian, S. (2022). Kautilyanomics for modern times. New Delhi: Bloomsbury Publishers.

Bernstein, J. (2019, October 11). The climate crisis and the failure of economics. Retrieved from Vox: https://www.vox.com/2019/10/11/20906786/climate-change-economics-price-signal-future-discounting

Ekvastra. (n.d.). Retrieved from Ekvastra: https://wiki.ekvastra.in/doku.php/subhashita/धृति_क्षमा

Wisdomlib. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/book/mahabharata-sanskrit/d/doc1036202.html

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Paper short abstract:

This study applied the concept of collective capabilities and the 3C-model on the reproductive health field. Analysing the work of two Ugandan NGOs, it explored how NGOs promote individual and community’s agency to advocate for reproductive justice. The findings show that local NGOs play a vital role to address community issues and concerns and to deliver the necessary information and referral.

Paper long abstract:

Background and research context

Information and access to reproductive health is a human right and targets regarding universal access to reproductive health care information and services are included in SDGs 3 and 5. Reproductive health is defined as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, in all matters relating to the reproductive system and to its functions and processes’ and ‘implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so’ (UN General Assembly, 1995). However, access to reproductive rights is not guaranteed in many countries in the world, and this is even more evident when it comes to access to safe abortion. Evidence and previous studies show that local NGOs play a huge role in making progress with the SDGs and in promoting locally led changes. However, little is known on how such organisations propose or implement projects oriented towards bringing changes to improve reproductive rights.

Research objectives

The objectives of this study were to:

• Explore the role of Ugandan NGOs in translating the SDGs targeted at reproductive health into local action.

• Explore the role of Ugandan NGOs in advocating for the implementation of policies aimed at addressing reproductive health.

• Elaborate the role of Ugandan NGOs in promoting individual and community agency to advocate for reproductive justice.

Methodology

The original contribution is made by analysing how two Ugandan NGOs work to improve information and access to reproductive health care services and how they are guided by the SDGs in this process. Their work is analysed using the concept of collective capabilities and applying the 3C-model developed by Ibrahim (2017) and aiming to ‘demonstrate how individual and collective acts of agency can generate new collective capabilities at the grassroots’ (p. 202). For this study, the model allows analysis of how the two NGOs propose or implement projects oriented towards bringing changes.

The methodology takes the form of an in-depth qualitative case study. The study focuses on two organisations that work on reproductive health and rights in Uganda: Fabs Organisation (hereafter Fabs) and COHERINET – The Community Health Rights Network (hereafter COHERINET). Data collection took place online between September 2021 and May 2022 and comprised two main methods: document analysis and 21 semi-structured interviews with NGOs members, complemented, where possible, by the photo elicitation technique. Themes and sub-themes were identified by conducting a thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006).

The 3C-model identifies three main processes for successful change: (1) conscientisation at individual level; (2) conciliation at communal level; and (3) collaboration at institutional level. Thanks to the 3C-model, this study analysed how Fabs and COHERINET propose or implement projects oriented to bring changes.

Analysis and conclusion

The findings suggest that local NGOs play a vital role to address community issues and concerns, to assess the specific needs and to deliver the necessary information and referral. This is even more crucial when working on topics such as reproductive health and abortion, which are often considered sensitive and controversial in certain communities. Therefore, it is recommended that local NGOs and networks of NGOs are considered central and are involved in all stages of the planning and implementation of reproductive health services and in the promotion of reproductive rights.

This study applied the concept of capabilities on the reproductive health field. It focused particularly on collective capabilities, defined by Ibrahim (2006, p. 404) as “newly generated capabilities attained by virtue of their engagement in a collective action or their membership in a social network that helps them achieve the lives they value”. It employed a recent model, the 3C-model (Ibrahim, 2017), and contributed to its testing in analysing grass roots-led change. As the 3C-model is quite recent, there are only a few studies that have applied this model to other research except for the ones used by Ibrahim to develop the model itself (Ibrahim, 2016; Ward et al., 2022). Thus, this study makes an important contribution to its application, and to study the role of NGOs in improving reproductive healthcare access.

The 3C-model provided a clear and useful framework to design the study, and it was straightforward to analyse the work of Fabs and COHERINET following the three processes and the three evaluative qualities. The data from both the interviews and the documents fitted well in that scheme. It is important to note though that for this study the work of the two NGOs was yes analysed following this model, but the model was only used as a framework to analyse their work, to guide the thematic analysis and to reply to the research questions. And this process was carried out by the researcher, an external person to the NGOs. Also, the work that Fabs and COHERINET do is not based on the three processes of the model. It would be useful for future studies to see the 3C-model applied by NGOs themselves and how this is different than when it is applied by outsiders.

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Paper short abstract:

This paper introduces a framework of voice as a collective capability and examines its relevance through the cases of household workers in Mexico and garment workers in Bangladesh advocating for labour rights. Voice can enhance capabilities through the voice-building process itself and by influencing the socio-political structure, emphasising its intrinsic and instrumental value.

Paper long abstract:

Background

The poor are also voice poor. The experience of poverty is marked by a feeling of powerlessness in relation to the state and the market, as illustrated by the participatory study "Voices of the Poor" (Narayan et al., 2000). Numerous obstacles impede the ability of poor people to engage in collective action and articulate their demands. Challenges include barriers to association due to limited time and financial resources and lack of access to political institutions, information and markets. Moreover, due to adverse social norms, poor women encounter additional obstacles in exerting their voice, as they are often limited in terms of political and economic empowerment, association and public action. (Nussbaum, 2000).

Given the limited options the poor have access to, voice is often the only resource available for them to advance their objectives (Paul, 1992). As a form of collective empowerment, voice can harness bureaucratic and social commitments for improving the provision of public goods and services, increasing access to justice, shaping a pro-poor market and mitigating crises. Voice becomes a relevant form of social accountability, serving as an alternative mechanism to democratic accountability for demanding provision or structural change.

Within the framework of the capability approach (Sen, 1999), this paper situates voice among collective capabilities, defined by Ibrahim (2006) as "capabilities attained by virtue of engagement in a collective action or their membership in a social network that helps individuals achieve the lives they value." Analysing voice as a dimension of poverty holds both theoretical and practical significance. Firstly, analysing the interaction of individual capabilities with social structures integrates power relations into the analysis of wellbeing (ibid.). This approach extends beyond technical analyses that focus solely on the characteristics of the poor, overlooking the political causes of poverty and processes of accumulation and distribution (Harris, 2009). Secondly, as voice can play an instrumental role in addressing deprivations, examining its components and processes can offer insights for enhancing initiatives aimed at bolstering the capacity of the poor to exert their voices.

The paper discusses the concept of voice as a collective capability, drawing on literature on empowerment and social movements, adopting the concept of Campbell et al. (2010), who define voice as "the capacity of poor people both to develop critical analyses that link their poverty to wider social inequalities and to articulate forceful demands on the basis of these critical understandings". The paper proposes five components of the voice formation process: (i) opportunity structure, (ii) information, (iii) conscientisation, (iv) organisational capacities and (v) social capital.

Methodology

The paper utilises a case study approach to investigate the factors contributing to voice formation and the related processes of capability creation among household workers in Mexico and garment workers in Bangladesh in their struggle to realise their labour rights. The methodology involves a systematic desk review, including detailed secondary data from field studies on workers' organisations and unions. Additionally, qualitative insights will be gathered through a survey administered to garment workers through the Global Worker Diaries platform and key informant interviews with household worker union leaders during the first half of 2024. The paper employs case studies and qualitative comparative analysis as analytical strategies. The use of NVIVO supported thematic coding and pattern matching.

Discussion

The five components of the voice-formation process contributed to some extent to the creation of capabilities among household workers in Mexico and garment workers in Bangladesh. Conscientisation, the process through which workers collectively reasoned on the changes needed to improve their working and living conditions, is at the core of capability creation and the first step towards the articulation of demands. In workshops organised by household workers' associations, individuals critically reflected on their conditions and identified necessary changes for a dignified life. Similarly, gatherings organised by the Bangladesh Independent Garment Workers Union Federation and international campaigns raised awareness among garment workers about their working conditions, facilitating conscientisation within this group. In both cases, horizontal social capital enabled conscientisation and association, while vertical social capital involving NGOs and external advocates supported the articulation of demands.

Adverse gender norms emerged as significant barriers to voice formation in both cases, with particular challenges noted for Bangladeshi workers. Limited employment opportunities for women in Bangladesh discourage collective action. Further, the low representation of women in labour unions and restricted freedom of movement in the public space impede their ability to voice their concerns collectively. This aligns with Nussbaum's assertion that women's work often provides fewer opportunities for association and practical reasoning compared to that of men.

While household and garment workers have made progress in developing their voice, creating an enabling environment to realise their labour rights and improving their welfare remains a slow-paced and challenging process. In Mexico, household worker organisations achieved a milestone with reforms granting formal employment rights and social security in 2019. However, reluctance from elites and the middle class impedes reform enforcement. In Bangladesh, garment workers' unions have contributed to improving factory safety measures and working conditions according to the garment industry's post-Rana Plaza commitments. However, securing dignified minimum wages remains a major challenge.

The process of voice development promotes individual capabilities. Participation in workshops and gatherings organised by unions and organisations fostered social capital, confidence, and bargaining power— domains where the working poor are deprived. Importantly, in this context, collective capabilities translated into individual ones (personal empowerment), not through structural changes (the realisation of labour rights) but rather as an outcome of the voice-building process itself.

Conclusion

Through the case studies of household workers in Mexico and garment workers in Bangladesh, the paper concludes that exerting voice can enhance capabilities in two ways: through the voice-building process itself and its interaction with the socio-political structure, highlighting its intrinsic and instrumental value. The case studies underscore the importance of collective capabilities, documenting the limited capacity of individual agency to drive structural change. Furthermore, the case studies provide insights into the interplay between the capabilities of the poor and political dynamics, showing how the former can influence the latter.

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Paper short abstract:

Teach for India, Gandhi Fellowship, and various fellowship programs in India attract an increasing number of graduate youths as fellows who engage in addressing social and policy issues. This study using qualitative methods, builds on sociopolitical development theory and examines the fellowships as a way to develop the personal and professional civic capacities and social agentic action of youth.

Paper long abstract:

Introduction

In the last two decades, there's been a notable surge in graduate youth engagement in fellowship programs initiated by governments and non-state entities. Programs like Gandhi Fellowship, Teach for India, Legislative Assistant to Members of Parliament, and many others position participants as change agents, crucial enablers, or problem solvers and envision the fellows carrying significant roles and responsibilities.

Fellows often carry and translate the experience and learning gained during fellowship into their careers as policymakers, implementers, reformers, advocates, and evaluators (Mitchell et al., 2014; Subramanian, 2022; Tripathy & Mahaprashasta, 2022). They remain not just an object of policy but become actors with rights and abilities to shape policies and address problems (Khatun & Tripathy, 2021; Mo & Conn, 2018). These fellowship models are projected as a catalyst and stepping stone for the fellow's professional journey (Labaree, 2010), whereby working for the organizations, fellows will be able to shape their careers.

Research objectives

Systematic research on the exponential increase in fellows as new actors, fellowship as a profession, and the implications of such fellowship programs are lacking in India (Sarkar, 2022). The influence of fellowships on fellows' sociopolitical development also remains theoretically under-specified (McAdam & Brandt, 2009; Scott et al., 2016).

This study aims to understand the journey of youth (fellows) as they engage with social and policy issues and the imprint that the fellowship leaves on them. I specifically look at critical consciousness in youth and the role of fellowships by a) exploring the individual and contextual factors influencing the growth of sociopolitical and cultural knowledge, attitude, and behavior in fellows and b) examining the influence of distinct attributes of fellowship design/structure in shaping the fellows' outcomes.

Conceptual lens of Sociopolitical development theory

Prior literature, predominantly from the global north, has pointed to the fellows' beliefs and

understanding being constantly shaped by their interactions with various actors, exposure to

and immersion in different spaces, such as government and community (Brewer, 2014; Conn

et al., 2022). Along with the fellowship design, the fellows' personality traits, socio-cultural identity, and socioeconomic backgrounds, have also been found to influence how a fellow perceives the problems, the existing status quo, and ways to challenge it (Coffman et al., 2017; Gautreaux & Delgado, 2016). Participation in fellowships is associated with diverse career trajectories (Dobbie & Fryer, 2015) and socio-political attitudes and beliefs (Mo et al., 2022). Hence, in specific context of a developing country, there is an increased number of fellowships catering to youth. To map the development of youth (fellows) as they engage with social and policy issues and the imprint that the fellowship leaves on them, using sociopolitical development theory (Watts et al., 2003; Watts & Halkovic, 2022) as an organizing framework will allow us to study the gradual acquisition of knowledge, critical consciousness, emotional faculties, and the ability to take effective action within political, cultural, economic, social, and other systemic structures. Sociopolitical development studies the process of growth and development of youth as informed, sensitive, and action-oriented about social, political, and other systemic issues and their civic engagement (Watts & Flanagan, 2007).

Methodology

The study used an exploratory qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with a) the program team (n~14), b) with the fellows (n~35), secondary reports, media articles, and a literature review. Purposive sampling was employed, and semi-structured interviews were taken online via Zoom, lasting 40-90 minutes. An iterative interview protocol was followed after getting institutional ethics approval. After transcription, data was thematically analyzed using six step process of Braun and Clarke (2006).

Findings

1) Fellowships as an alternate human development organization

Fellowship models can be seen as human capital development organizations (Fenzel et al.,

2014), where college graduates and early career professionals work to address society's

problems. The proactive engagement of motivated yet inexperienced young individuals with pressing societal issues exposes them to multifaceted challenges and has the potential to mold their perception of wicked problems and government functionaries. Fellowship acts as a catalyst, an alternative to other degrees, by becoming an alternate higher education space with a more practice-oriented, life skill-driven, praxis mode, action-reflection, and live projects. The fellowship design expands the classroom beyond the teacher and the room, having implications for social work curriculum and education. It falls as a capstone project and a service learning going beyond the professionalization of volunteerism (Alfes et al., 2017) and apprenticeship of a kind (Chan et al., 2022) to train diverse discipline graduate youth but different from a fulltime job to build professionals.

2) Fellow's experience as agents of change

Fellows view fellowship as a platform and opportunity for a) entering the social sector, a stepping stone for a career, and b) exploring their inner selves. The experiences of youth working with the community and addressing complex social problems highlight that fellows keep swimming against the tide of social current and unconventional workspace and community. Through the fellowship experiences, fellows evolve, develop a sense of agency, and take prominent positions. The fellowship experience gives fellows a reality check about social issues, helps them make an informed career choice, and allows them to experience dual identities, highlighting the transformative potential of fellowship for personal and professional development (Ahmann, 2016; Joseph, 2019). The individual outcomes of fellows can be seen through sociopolitical development outcomes highlighted by Watts and Halkovic (2022): 1) in terms of increased capabilities of the youth in their intellectual development, resisting certain practices, delivering constructive emotional works, and exhibiting leadership and social skills; 2) societal involvement where they contributes in various activism and social movements, becomes a part of community-building, community service and organizes campaigns, provides humanitarian and constituency supports, healing and self-care; 3) prolonged engagement and commitment as addressing complex issues takes considerable time where small wins are stepping stones.

Conclusion

The study provides insights into conceptualizing the transformative potential of a multitude of fellowship programs in India, acting as a platform for sociopolitical development of fellows. It expands sociopolitical development theory beyond the United States, acknowledging the influence of sociopolitical context and layered identities on fellows' growth and development.

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Paper short abstract:

This article tries to the communal capability creation process from a long-standing empowerment activity in one of the local communities in Indonesia. The empowerment initiative started with the activism of a local leader who successfully initiated a micro-hydro power plant. This research seeks to review how local figures who have capabilities have the process of growing communal capabilities.

Paper long abstract:

Research Context

In the Indonesian context, initiatives are often initiated by individuals who are considered to have abilities and capabilities by the community. However, it is often the case that these capabilities only stop at individual capabilities and cannot yet become the cause of communal capabilities. In other words, Sen's approach is often limited to the discussion of subjective well-being and not yet at the transformative stage of objective well-being. However, this study tries to paint a different picture. Focusing on the initiative of the people of Andung Biru Village (Indonesia) in providing electricity independently, they show a pattern of change from individual capability to communal capability. Electricity, which was initially initiated by a local figure through utilizing water resources in his village, in its journey turned into a "tool" for community functioning.

From a technical point of view, the discussion about massive new and renewable energy today has been their practice for decades before with their independent power plant (Micro Hydro Power Plant). Not only stopping at the novelty of energy, the change from individual to collective capabilities is an interesting finding to examine given the complexity of the structure and hierarchy of village communities (especially remote villages). Thus, this article is expected to provide a new and complete picture of various issues that intersect with each other, namely inclusive local resource-based development.

Methodology

The case study approach is used in this research as one of the approaches in the qualitative method (Mills et al., 2010). At least researchers use a case study approach referring to the explanation of Sturman (1999), which explains case studies as an effort to find research answers by trying to understand individuals, groups, or phenomena that occur at a specific time. Research questions that seek contested answers to the question "how" also feel more relevant to using this approach to reveal something compared to the question "what" (Yin, 2009). Apart from that, this approach is appropriate for exploring further a phenomenon that is different from the others (Mills et al., 2010).

Based on some of the previous explanations, at least several arguments underlie the use of case studies in this research. Seeing that there are very few references that describe the phenomenon of electricity supply similar in Andung Biru Village, the case study approach is considered appropriate for researchers to explore and understand more about the facts that are currently developing. This case study approach is also a differentiator for research results that will be sought by researchers with others who are already in Andung Biru Village. Researchers will focus on the case in the past and the current situation that the process can show transformation from individual capabilities to communal capabilities. At least these two things, namely the uniqueness of the case and the limitations of the research to be carried out, are the basis for using the case study approach in this research.

The research was carried out by field work of research activities, one of which was interviewing some of informants that’s inherent to the electrification process in Andung Biru village. The informants were selected based on the preferences of the researchers with the criteria of being able to provide important information regarding the electricity supply that occurred. Of course, each informant was re-adjusted to the interview guide based on the purpose and type of information needed in the research.

Analysis & Conclusion

Looking at the case of Andung Biru village, the necessity to solve the electricity problem led to individual initiatives. Rasid, as local initiator, who has a wide range of skills based on his own experience, was able to initiate water-based electricity (re: micro-hydro) in 1993. To date, this electricity has been able to provide electricity services to hundreds of households in Andung Biru. As a result, the change from a village without electricity to one that is self-sufficient in electricity is widely known.

This phenomenon is not only interesting in terms of changes in village conditions. The story of Rasid, who has the capacity and capability as a local actor, is another interesting side of the story of how individual capabilities are transforming into communal capabilities. Rasid managed to manage the potential and individual assets into group assets. This is shown by the management pattern that involves people from various groups, ranging from youth groups, farmer groups, to forest enthusiast groups. As a result, the local community group transformed from a group that previously had no ability and capability in development programs, especially micro-hydro, to a group that can be empowered.

This article infers communal system can be concluded as a capability that involves community rights fulfilment in hierarchy relation. Community rights are identified with the indigenous values and customs embedded in a local community system. Rasid's leadership in the community characterises the patron-client relationship in communal communities in Indonesia. The large role of the leader with the aim of benevolence creates trust and a strong attachment of the community to the figure of the leader. Thus, the community - in the case of community empowerment in AndungBiru - views the process of community organising as a hierarchical process.

Based on these findings, it is illustrated that the process of creating a complete capability to a community group is strongly influenced by the system of social relations that is present socio-historically. This becomes a critical point for the capability approach when it turns out that the creation of capabilities occurs in the hierarchical process of a typical society with patronage. The collectively that is sought in the process of activating the functioning of individuals in an egalitarian manner will not be able to exist when the community has effectively worked in a patronage process. In addition, the presence of a leader with a strong interest in community empowerment is a key determinant of the creation of capability in communal communities. This argument then encourages that communal capabilities can emerge when there is a process of capability transformation from one influential figure to the surrounding community.

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Paper short abstract:

This theoretical contribution aims to propose Philosophy for Children (P4C) as an environment (community of inquiry), as a method (philosophical dialogue) and as a performance (collective deliberation), to increase communal well-being and collective actions through the education of collective capabilities, in disorientational practices.

Paper long abstract:

In a world perceived as risky and unstable, in which certainties are questioned and crises and uncertainties touch not only individual lives but also social cohesion and international human perspectives, governance, and institutions hardly try to find coherence maintaining a structure and a direction by orienting society at every level. UNESCO acknowledges a pervasive lack of belief and self-projection among students regarding the future, attributed partly to the lingering effects of an unjust past and exacerbated by the profound social isolation experienced during the post-pandemic era (Sriprakash, Nally & Myers, 2020). There is an increased need to address within the educational proposal exercises that can help students thrive in complex societies, changing times, and uncertain futures (Barreneche, Zorzi & Santi, 2023). UNESCO emphasizes the imperative to mend futures through educational initiatives fostering listening, dialogue, and reflection on students' present circumstances, thereby nurturing their prospects (Sriprakash, Nally & Myers, 2020). In education, in a time in which the right of “indecision” within a crisis seems to be lost, having time for being lost in the decision, to inhabit uncertainties, would be an opportunity (Barreneche, Santi, 2022). New models of educational systems, oriented to well-being and well-becoming (Biggeri & Santi, 2012) are needed, guided by the acknowledgment that instruction, like life, cannot always be planned, and central to these efforts is the restoration of fractured social bonds, achievable through educational interventions that cultivate collective capabilities among students. Also, a social dimension of orientation (or disorientation), against an individualistic one, should be promoted didactically, elaborating proposals that can teach how to deal community with a problem or question; addressing collectively the uncertainties of seeking for possible answer (Barreneche, Santi, 2022; Barreneche, Santi, Zorzi, 2023). Drawing from the capabilities approach pioneered by Sen (1999, 1987), collective capabilities are defined as achievements and opportunities realized within the context of community life, underscored by a process of collective action. These capabilities possess a connective character, diffusing throughout the community and conferring benefits that transcend individual attainment (Santi, Ghedin, 2024).

Educating collective capabilities, individual well-being can be transcended, and the inquiry can shift toward communal well-being, prompting the exploration of how collective spaces and actions can be forged to nurture the well-being of young people. Communal well-being, delineated as 'the entire network of social conditions enabling human individuals and groups to thrive and lead authentically human lives' (Deneulin, 2004, p. 7), assumes significance alongside the concept of well-becoming (Biggeri & Santi, 2012).

To realize this vision, educational strategies must equip students with the tools to co-create their wor(l)ds (i.e. lectures, Socratic dialogues, laboratory experiments, collaborative problem-solving), educating creative chaos, inquiring about complexity together, and improvising collectively in crises and uncertainties.

The efficacy of these methods lies not merely in their technical execution but in the profound connections also to concepts such as “activity” and “participation” promoted by the OMS in the ICF, to foster individual and social citizenship’s engagement. Also, Sen remembers that individuals are socially embedded agents, who interact with their societies and flourish fully only by participating in social affairs (Sen, 2002, pp. 79–80). Safe learning environments, characterized by open dialogue, suspension of judgment, and a focus on process and critical inquiry, allow students to confront diverse perspectives and tackle complex problems where collective meaning-making and the enactment of reflective practice are possible. Through the lens of human flourishing, these environments not only nurture individual potential but also foster a sense of interconnectedness and societal vitality (Santi, Ghedin, 2024).

This paper aims to propose Philosophy for Children as an environment (community of inquiry), as a method (philosophical dialogue), and as a performance (collective deliberation), to increase communal well-being and collective actions through the education of collective capabilities in dis-orientation practices. Matthew Lipman's Philosophy for Children (Lipman, 2004) offers a practical framework for achieving this goal, most of all because disorientation becomes a shared burden within a community of inquiry, and this becomes fundamental to deal collectively in an uncertain world. It emphasizes inquiry as a method easily trainable and implementable within educational settings. Philosophy for Children serves as a pedagogical foundation for cultivating essential capabilities such as creativity, critical thinking, and care (Nussbaum, 2011). It fosters the development of flourishing and participative communities, where collective imagination becomes a driving force for free agency.

Within communities of inquiry, students engage in connective exploration, embracing the richness of shared thinking. This collaborative approach contrasts with traditional achievement-oriented educational systems, allowing for the emergence of reparative and imaginative futures born from curiosity and uncertainty. Cultivating a habit of inquiring from childhood to youth, becomes paramount in shaping a generation capable of flourishing also in the complexities of today and tomorrow (Santi, Ghedin, 2024), of improvising collectively in uncertainties (Zorzi, Santi, 2023) and of navigating together within disorientation.

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Paper short abstract:

This paper delves into how Indian Grameen Services empowers marginalized Indian women through livelihood projects, addressing resource access and decision-making hurdles. It highlights the Locally Led Development approach, emphasizing women's pivotal role. It concludes by stressing women's transformative potential in inclusive development, with actionable recommendations.

Paper long abstract:

Title: Catalyzing Change: Livelihood Promotion and Women's Empowerment in India's Marginalised Communities

Abdur Rafique, Senior Researcher, Indian Grameen Services

Sanjib Sarangi, Chief Partnerships Officer, Indian Grameen Services

Introduction:

In India, marginalized communities, particularly women, face significant challenges in accessing resources, opportunities for socio-economic development, and decision-making power. Recognizing the pivotal role of women in community development and the potential for transformative change, organizations such as Indian Grameen Services (IGS) have been at the forefront of pushing women's empowerment through livelihood promotion initiatives. This paper explores the intersection of women's empowerment and livelihood promotion in India's marginal section of the communities, focusing on the development of women's agency and creating a facilitative ecosystem within their own communities.

Problem Background:

The Locally Led Development (LLD) process has garnered global significance for its efficacy and impact in implementing development projects and ensuring sustainability. Coined by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), LLD entails local actors—comprising individuals, communities, networks, organizations, private entities, and governments—setting their own agendas, devising solutions, and leveraging their capacity, leadership, and resources to realize these solutions. This approach has been acknowledged as effective and impactful in achieving development objectives.

The meaningful engagement of women is pivotal to this process, given their significant presence in communities and their unique perspectives, needs, and insights. Integrating women ensures that development endeavors are inclusive and reflective of the entire community, thereby fostering more comprehensive and successful outcomes. Furthermore, involving women in development initiatives can facilitate their empowerment and leadership development. By affording opportunities for women to actively participate in decision-making, assume leadership roles, and enhance their skills, development projects can contribute to dismantling gender barriers and promoting greater gender equality within communities.

In spite of constitutional provisions and legal frameworks that aims to provide equal opportunity with the notion of equity the marginalized communities in India, including women, are disproportionately affected by economic disparities, social exclusion, and environmental degradation. Limited access to resources and opportunities further exacerbates their vulnerabilities, hindering their ability to improve their lives and livelihoods and participate fully in decision-making processes. Gender norms and cultural barriers often constrain women's agency, restricting their autonomy and perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization. Facilitating meaningful economic inclusion through opportunities to engage in livelihood activities is likely to improve the situation.

In this context, initiatives aimed at promoting women's empowerment through livelihood promotion hold immense potential for catalyzing positive change and fostering inclusive development.

Key Questions:

1. What are the key challenges faced by women in India's marginal communities in accessing resources, economic opportunities, and decision-making power?

2. How do livelihood initiatives, such as those implemented by Indian Grameen Services, contribute to women's empowerment and agency within their own communities?

3. What strategies and approaches have been effective in fostering a facilitative ecosystem for women's empowerment within marginalized communities?

4. How do contextual factors, including socio-cultural norms, economic conditions, and environmental considerations, influence the outcomes of women's empowerment initiatives in the context of livelihood promotion?

5. What lessons can be drawn from the experiences of Indian Grameen Services in promoting women's empowerment and facilitating the development of a supportive ecosystem within marginal communities?

Method of Answering the Questions:

This study utilizes both primary and secondary sources of information. Primary data is obtained through semi-structured interviews conducted with key stakeholders involved with IGS, such as project implementers, beneficiaries, and community leaders. Secondary data is drawn from academic literature, reports, and case studies pertaining to women's empowerment, livelihood enhancement, and community development in India.

Expected Outcomes:

The paper is expected to contribute to both theoretical understanding and practical interventions in promoting women's empowerment and livelihood development in India's marginalised communities. By synthesizing insights from practical experiences within a theoretical framework, the paper highlights the significance of incorporating inclusion and diversity, delving into how, when provided with opportunities in financial inclusion and leadership positions, women can not only empower themselves but also make substantial contributions to fostering a supportive environment. Moreover, it acknowledges women as essential participants in ecosystem development and emphasizes the necessity of gender-inclusive strategies to propel locally driven development efforts forward. The paper also aims to offer recommendations for policymakers, development practitioners, and other stakeholders involved in women's empowerment and livelihood promotion efforts, informed by the experiences of Indian Grameen Services and similar organizations.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, this paper highlights the transformative potential of women's empowerment in catalyzing positive change and fostering inclusive development in India's marginal communities. By promoting women's agency and facilitating a supportive ecosystem, organizations like Indian Grameen Services play a pivotal role in empowering women to improve their livelihoods and contribute to community resilience. Through collaborative efforts and informed interventions, the vision of inclusive and sustainable development in India can be realized, with women at the forefront of catalyzing change in their own communities.

Key words: Women's empowerment, Livelihood promotion, Marginal communities, Agency, Facilitative ecosystem, Locally Led Development

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Paper short abstract:

Crises expose weaknesses, demanding strong capabilities & commitment for effective response. VSO prioritizes marginalized groups, empowering them through the Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach.' Case studies in Philippines, Zimbabwe, & Tanzania demonstrate collective action's impact on wellbeing & rights realization.

Paper long abstract:

The relationship between crises, capabilities, and commitment has been a topic of study for many years. There is evidence to suggest that these three factors have a significant impact on each other in various contexts. Here are some key findings from research on this topic: 1. Crises can reveal weaknesses in individuals, organizations, or societies' capabilities. When faced with a crisis, those involved may struggle due to lacking the necessary skills or resources to effectively address it. 2. Capabilities play a crucial role in responding to and recovering from crises. Those with strong skill sets and access to resources are more likely to be able manage through difficult situations successfully. 3. Commitment plays an important role as well; high levels of personal or organizational motivation can lead to better outcomes during times of crisis.

Through its global strategies, ‘People First’ (2016-21) and ‘Power of Us’ (2022-28), VSO’s priority and focus includes accountability to the voices and choices of the most marginalised and vulnerable groups of people, referred to as ‘primary actors’ in VSO’s work. The engagement of most marginalised and vulnerable groups of people and communities in VSO programmes takes a framework of building their agency, empowerment, influence, and accountability, in the process, building their ‘collective capabilities’ to demand their rights and hold duty bearers or service providers to account.

Through this paper we would discuss three contextually distinct examples from a) Philippines, b) Zimbabwe and c) Tanzania. The paper would highlight the primary actors’ citizenship actions, using lobbying and advocacy for wider policy and system change. Together, they lead to improved wellbeing and realization of rights by primary actors at individual, household, and community level.

In Philippines, VSO works with primary actors facing dual crises, severe climactic changes and conflict. Through a participatory and integrated approach there is increased participation of community members particularly women and youth, developed a sense of ownership and agency mainly due to the efforts of community volunteers that has led to strengthened social cohesion and accountability amongst primary actors and duty bearers.

In Zimbabwe, the primary actors are still rebuilding from the aftermath of IDAI and ongoing droughts amongst other climate challenges. VSO’s interventions have built the agency of farmers networks, agriculture cooperatives and primary actor collectives to engage the government and private sector on right to food, food sovereignty and climate justice.

One of VSO’s key projects in Tanzania is on Collective Action for Rights realization in extractives Industry. The lack of oversight, governance and transparency in the extractive sector is often attributed to a lack of access to information, inadequate independence of accountability systems from the state, leading to duty-bearer impunity (Oxfam, 2016). Through a people centric approach, women groups, youth and PWD networks were empowered to participate in extractive employment opportunities, amplify their voice, safely claim rights and entitlements, and feel supported in reporting and seeking remediation in incidents of corporate abuse.

Through the various evaluations carried out by VSO, the most significant results seen in these three countries are:

- In Tanzania, there is improved capacity and collective action of community members to protect, include, recognise, and uphold marginalised groups’ economic rights and entitlements.

- In Philippines, significant strides have been made on social cohesion and social accountability by promoting collective action on the part of primary actors and duty bearers through VSO’s trainings on peace building, social enterprise development and climate resilience.

- In Zimbabwe, through dialogue between women collectives and government administrations, community issues were raised and addressed as well as ensured an agreeable policy environment for improved service delivery.

The full paper shall investigate the tools and approaches adopted for collective action by the primary actors in these countries and discuss at length the key quantifiable results.

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Paper short abstract:

The paper will deal with an ethnographic description of the views of about 90 young women activists who are members of an international women's movement for social justice. Their views on social crises in their countries will be given, together with their perceptions on capabilities that are available in their home context.

Paper long abstract:

The author will present research material collected during three different action-oriented summer schools, held during July 2023 and February and July 2024, with young women in a Women’s Movement for Social Justice. These young women live and work in about 15 different countries, mainly in Africa and Latin America, but also in Europe and Asia. They apply to attend the summer schools, which are presented both in Nijmegen in the Netherlands, and in Kleinmond, South Africa. The author is a member of the facilitation team, together with Prof Yvonne Sliep, University of KwaZulu/Natal. The theme of the summer school course, Creating communities with heart, was chosen by Prof Christa Anbeek, leader of the facilitation team. The course rests on the philosophical insight that real transformation is often preceded by disruption. Personal disruption is explored and reflected on, but this presentation will mainly deal with the participants’ perception of larger-scale social disruption in their communities and countries. We shall also attempt to make links between personal and social disruptions in the lives of the participants.

Presentation

The socio-cultural disruption experienced and perceived by the participants will be presented in a mapping exercise which will also show the prioritization of disruptions by the participants. Each priority area of disruption will be reviewed in terms of general data, context and ethnographic content. The contextualization will be linked to broad socio-political parameters, and the participants’ views about the root causes of the disruptions will be discussed. The mapping will also enable the presenters to analyse local-global connections in the social disruptions that are discussed.

During the summer schools participants are asked to link areas of social disruption, such as violence against women, to an analysis of capability deprivation among those involved. (This theme featured very strongly in the 2023 summer school). This analysis will be presented in some detail. Capabilities are seen as both social opportunity sets and personal capabilities, therefore beings and doings. These concepts are discussed in depth during the summer schools, with emphasis on how being and self-reflection prepares for and complements doing and action.

By September the three groups of summer school participants will have been taken through a group process that strengthens agency, commitment and skills. After each summer school the young women have to establish a small scale project or event where they can address a problem they had identified in a planned, collective way. During this phase we emphasise elements of their own agency and commitment, and use a framework for the analysis of agency that was formulated by Conradie (2014). This framework, partially based on the work of Martin, Sugarman and Hickinbottom (2010) and on Self-Determination Theory (Chirkov, Ryan and Sheldon, 2011), will use the following agency and commitment parameters for a joint exploration with the student:

• Reflective judgement; understanding, of self and others

• Motivation and will; internal locus of control

• Pursuit of goals in organized action

• Personal autonomy

• Relatedness

• Competence – the application of knowledge and skills in an authentic way

The intervention will be theoretically framed by the use of agency in the capability approach. For some of the participants we shall be able to assess how they actually used agency, while for others we shall only be able to refer to how they intend to use it, as we shall not have received reports on their work by the time the conference takes place. The entire intervention will be done within a relational ontology (Owens, Entwistle, Craven and Conradie, 2021).

Summary

By combining the Capability Approach and the framework devised by Anbeek (2024, forthcoming), we shall endeavor to reflect the social disruption perceptions and experiences of between 80 and 90 young women from different parts of the globe. We shall also show how they assessed capabilities and how some of them had used agency to engage with these problems in a small way.

Bibliography

Anbeek, Christa, 2024 (forthcoming). Embracing vulnerability. In search of communities with a heart. Nijmegen: Radboud University Press.

Chirkov, V, Sheldon, K., and Ryan, R. 2011. Introduction: the struggle for happiness and autonomy in cultural and personal contexts: an overview. In: V. Chirkov, R. Ryan and K. Sheldon. (eds.) Human autonomy in cross-cultural context. Dordrecht: Springer.

Conradie, Ina, 2014. Aspirations and capabilities: the design and analysis of an action research project in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. PhD thesis, University of the Western Cape, South Africa

Martin, J., Sugarman, J., Hickinbottom, S. 2010. Persons, understanding psychological selfhood and agency. New York: Springer.

Norton, L & Sliep, Y, 2018. A critical reflexive model: working with life stories in health promotion education. In: South African Journal of Higher Education, Vol. 32/3:45-63.

Owens, J, Entwistle, V, Craven, L, & Conradie, I. (2021). Understanding and investigating relationality in the Capability Approach. Journal of social Behaviour. https://doi.org/10.1111/jtsb.12310

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Paper short abstract:

This paper argues that grassroots youth work practice offers a fertile site for the development of youth agency and solidarity, by exploring the organisational processes and practices that support the development of youth agency and solidarity through group work and dialogue.

Paper long abstract:

Recent policy literature highlights the urgent need to address human insecurity issues in the Anthropocene by building solidarity and agency (United Nations Development Programme, 2022). This paper argues that grassroots youth work practice offers a fertile site for the development of youth agency and solidarity, exploring the questions, ‘What are the organisational processes and practices that support youth agency and solidarity development?’ and ‘How do these processes link with the wellbeing capabilities that young people have reason to value?, by drawing on data from a recent research study with young people and youth workers.

For youth in low-income neighbourhoods in Scotland, crises related to the COVID-19 pandemic, rising cost of living (JRF, 2023) and lack of affordable housing (Resolution Foundation, 2023) have deepened existing poverty and inequalities. The educational attainment gap between rich and poor has increased (Scottish Qualifications Authority, 2022) and 16.2% of young people now fall into the category of ‘not in employment, education or training’ (Scottish Government, 2023). These factors put a strain on relationships and reduce capacity for agency, profoundly affecting young people’s wellbeing and outcomes (White, 2018). Alongside this, a third of young people report that their neighbourhood is not a good place to live (Scottish Government, 2023). Youth from low-income neighbourhoods are often pathologized and further marginalised for their lack of economic and civic participation (Bečević and Dahlstedt, 2022), while wider policy discourses divert focus away from structural inequalities and frame unemployment and a lack of qualifications as individualised moral problems (McPherson, 2021).

Grassroots youth education provides a lifeline, building individual capabilities including criticality, trust and confidence. While youth organisations capture individual outcomes , evidence on their potential to build collective strength is limited (Fyfe et al., 2018), despite a strong focus on dialogical, group-based activity. Recent research suggests three levels – personal, social and structural levels – at which grassroots youth work organisations can play a unique role in supporting collective youth capabilities (Ward et al., 2022). Understanding the dynamics of agency and solidarity and how it can be measured and supported through groupwork will enable grassroots youth organisations to extend their social justice outcomes and highlight the unique value of their contribution to the wellbeing and security of disadvantaged young people.

The paper is based on a research study in Scotland, working with young people and youth workers across three youth organisations, using participatory video, zine making and in-depth interviews to understand the collective processes and practices which enabled youth groups contributed to act (agency) and support each other (solidarity). Scotland was chosen as a focus for the study due to a favourable policy environment for rights and empowerment following recent legislation (Community Empowerment Act (2015); UNCRC), and intermediary level interest by CLD Standards Council in demonstrating the wellbeing capabilities of youth work. Drawing on a combined Theory of Change approach, the study surfaced and tested a logic model on the contribution of grassroots youth organisations to youth agency and solidarity.

Young people in Scotland cite their top three wellbeing priorities as ‘having a safe and warm place to live, food and clothes; having positive relationships with family and friends; and feeling safe, at home, in the community and online’ (Ward, Bynner and Bianchi, 2021). Grassroots youth organisations offer the chance to achieve these individual wellbeing goals for young people unable to achieve them through school, family or employment. They also nurture solidarity, critique and resistance amongst young people through collective processes of ‘conscientisation, conciliation and collaboration’ (Ibrahim, 2017; Ward, McBride and Watson, 2022). They offer an important focus for epistemic justice (Fricker 2015), where young people can contribute to wider society by securing their rights to democratic dialogue, deliberation and representation in a trusted, long-term and local setting. The study explored the processes of youth work practice that operate as conversion factors for capability achievement in youth agency and solidarity. By surfacing and testing the change mechanisms, the study aimed to offer clear and robust measures to demonstrate the contribution of youth work to youth agency and solidarity.

The study found that youth work starts with local issues that are meaningful to the young person’s life and supports a series of steps towards taking action for change, enabling young people to build skills and confidence over a period of years within a collective group work setting. These steps are often created via participatory creative arts such as video and TV, music projects, festivals and events, which offer a vehicle for creative expression for young people and a contribution to local cultural life. Based on responsive, trusting relationships, young people were supported to explore relevant local issues, such as housing and employment, identity, transport and safety. As they deepened their understanding of local issues, they built political identities, creative responses to social inequalities and took action to improve their lives and those of other young people. Youth work was focused on a central practice of collective dialogue, informal education and action, which enabled young people to build confidence in their voices, engage in diverse views and experiences, share meaningful connection with others, plan action and initiate dialogue for change with those in positions of power.

These findings suggest that youth work organisations offer hopeful spaces for young people to work collectively towards agency and solidarity, through dialogue and group work. They promote understanding in and between communities and offer tailored, holistic and trusted support to young people in crisis. Despite this, youth organisations operate on precarious funding streams and contracts, facing eroded budgets and competition for resources. By framing the value of youth work in the context of human security and by using the Capability Approach in combination with theory-based evaluation to measure the conversion factors to youth agency and solidarity, the paper seeks to contribute to Capabilities scholarship on the contribution of informal education approaches to youth wellbeing, and to shore up support for grassroots youth organisations as unique spaces for democratic participation.

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Paper short abstract:

The paper aims to understand the identity formation process of youths exercising strong agency towards social change in rural South Africa. Through life history interviews of youth entrepreneurs in Qwaqwa, the research found that their agency is not constructed on the understanding of self as an individual being, but their understanding of self lies in continuum to their ancestors.

Paper long abstract:

<Background>

Erikson (1968) proposes that the main task of a person during its youth period is to work on the formation of one’s own identity. A number of sociological research has attended to understand how youth construct their identity in relation to their situated social context, through understanding identity formation work as a social process. Studies have also shown how one’s sense of belonging to a group affects the development of collective identity. This collective identity becomes the source of agency to exercise one’s capability for the betterment of the group and the wider society. Understanding youth’s identity formation is therefore critical in analyzing the agency that youth hold today, and to consider them as active agents of social change.

<Research context>

The case of South Africa depicts a situation where youth are situated in a society attempting to achieve social change towards a ‘rainbow nation’ but struggling with various tensions inherent among different social groups. In South Africa census, youth is defined as those in the age group of 15-34. Based on this definition of youth, they consist roughly 34.4% of the entire population. Today, South African youth are referred to as the “Born Frees”, as they were raised after the 1994 liberation from apartheid rule and are considered to be the drivers of South Africa’s future economic growth. Meanwhile, although decades have passed since the end of apartheid, the legacy still persists in various avenues of one’s life and limits this youth generation’s opportunities. Poverty in rural areas are still evident with scarce job opportunities. Rapid urbanization has created massive outflow of youth to urban areas, but youth unemployment rate is as high as 67%. From this perspective, they are also referred to as “a lost generation” or a “ticking time bomb”. Scholars have argued that imposing the image of the “Born Frees” has had two side effects on the South African youth – positive in a sense that they grew up with a sense of agency to build a ‘rainbow nation’ with high aspirations about their future, but negative in a way that they are often neglected of these ambitions as real opportunities remain absent. However, despite these hardships, there are some youths, who have developed strong sense of agency to act as change agents of their community.

It has been pointed out by various research that there is need to take care of rural development by incentivizing skilled personnel in each rural area. While youth are often victimized for the high rate of youth unemployment rate in South Africa, they should also be looked at from the capability theory perspective – that they are not simply recipients of social grants or aid, but are active agents themselves.

<Research aim and questions>

How is it possible for rural youth, growing up in an environment with relatively limited resources, to develop agency towards the community and become agents of social change? What identity construction process leads to enactment of such strong agency?

This research aimed to uncover the agency of youths by focusing on youth identity formation processes. How did they construct and negotiate among multiple identities - both personal and collective, and how did such identities support the exercise of agency towards social change?

<Methodology/ Analysis/ Conclusion>

It applied a single case study of youth entrepreneurs who are exercising strong agency towards social change in a rural area called Qwaqwa in the Free State province of South Africa. Through life history interviews of youth entrepreneurs in Qwaqwa, the research found that in the context of South African youth, their agency is not constructed on the understanding of self as an individual being, but their understanding of self lies in continuum to their ancestors, harnessing sense of belonging to the place that has enacted their agency to work towards betterment of the community despite various hardships. The research proposes the importance of recognizing the concept of roots and time in human development, especially in the context of rural development where attachment to place is a critical factor to foster change agents.

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Paper short abstract:

How can media be leveraged to engage those on the margins to participate as active citizens and contribute meaningfully to healthy democracy and the promotion of public good? Conceptualising people-run community radios as platforms for revitalising citizen participation and voice capability, this paper argues for recognising them as a public service supporting democracy and human development.

Paper long abstract:

The author has closely observed and researched India’s community radio (CR) movement for over two decades. She has traced the history of Public Broadcasting in India as it has evolved from patronising and authoritarian colonial control to the post-colonial period. She has argued that even as radio completes 100 years in India, it continues to be governed by two archaic legislations, and no comprehensive policy defines its future vision and pathways. The unique opportunity community radio offers to democratise the mediascape is being hampered as the state swings between autonomy and regulation. The paper argues that refashioning the ‘mainstream’ media into propaganda tools and business ventures has resulted in the ‘Habermasian re-feudalization of the public sphere’. Young audiences especially are increasingly relying on social media platforms for information, contributing to the well-documented diffusion of dis- and misinformation that has been challenging the stability and health of democratic societies. As the mainstream media worldwide and in India seek new revenue models or undertake trust-building endeavours, the fundamental problem remains unresolved: how can media be leveraged to engage those on the margins to participate as active citizens and contribute meaningfully to healthy democracy and the promotion of public good? Conceptualising people-run community radios as platforms for revitalising citizen participation and voice capability, this paper argues for recognising them as a public service supporting democracy and human development.

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Paper short abstract:

Citizen participation and collective action are crucial in transforming society, strengthening actions for human rights, expanding capabilities. The paper proposes the results of the panel work at Global Dialogue Week 2023 on the The Ocean Race 2022-23 case, a sport event focused on sustainability programs and the voice given to people for active role in international policy spaces

Paper long abstract:

Key words: SDGs, basic capabilities, environment and sustainable development, participation, freedoms

The paper is based on the panel organized by the Sustainable Human Development TG within the Global Dialogue Week 2023 (GDW 2023) .

The panel was a Sustainability-focused event having at the same Table some key policy, sports, organization, practitioner and academic people contributing and discussing the impact of The Ocean Race 2022-23 edition (TOR) sailing event, a sport event with a Sustainability program at the core of its organization gathering experts in each City Race Leg to discuss and finalise guidelines that could inform a Universal Declaration of Ocean Rights.

Taking the inspiration from the top international sport sailing event the paper investigates sustainability dimensions including governance, international versus local policy, the adoption of management standards, the identification of relevant sustainable management phases, sea economy sectorial interrelations, impact of internal and external communication on audiences, local vs central resources, the implementation of social responsibility and environmental-friendly practices.

The Ocean Race organization within the Policy Summit Process prepared the document “We are the Ocean and the Ocean is us - Establishing a new relationship between humankind and the Ocean” to be presented at the United Nations General Assembly Week 78, in New York on September, 2023 for the definition of a "declaration of the ocean and waters rights".

The racing with purpose sustainability program featured furthermore the most comprehensive science initiative created by a sporting event.

The competitors sailing teams completed their lap around the planet, giving their contribution also to scientific research; through their program they wanted, in fact, to make a significant impact by fostering ocean education and driving actionable change for the ocean.

The Italian city of Genoa, renowned for its historic sailors and great explorers was the final leg of The Ocean Race edition 2022-23 the round-the-world race, that in more than 6 months long route touched the cities of Alicante, Cabo Verde, Cape Town, Itajaì, Newport, Aarhus, Kiel fly-by, The Hague.

The OR together with the Olympics represents the world’s longest and toughest team sailing sporting event.

The paper investigates complex issues linked both to the event and the promotion of the ocean protection rights (SDG 14) and how to promote economic growth and sustainable human development making cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable (SDG 11).

The paper addresses the assessment of how citizens can have in practice an active role in expanding their freedoms: the sustainable human development demand of responsibility, the request of effective and efficient institutions as a question that we have to think as a global challenge for the next generations starting from the Brundtland Report to the more recent revisions (Sen, 2010-2013).

The academic discourse aimed firstly to explore the connection of a sport event with the sustainability framework of Capability Approach, and afterwards to discuss the concept of City of Capabilities, the key role of the City for expanding inclusive growth and development as well as spaces for people's freedoms and flourishing.

The capability approach offers a framework on how a comprehensive concept of sustainable human development can lead to widen the range of policies concerned with economic growth and human development encompassing policy, organization; it is a way of understanding and unveiling people's freedoms. A capability approach to cities requires to examine the freedoms that individuals have, the opportunities available, the civic participation and involvement. The freedoms that individuals have to pursue, which they have reason to value and the opportunities available for those values.

The paper confirms the growing relevance of sports events and sport institutions in involving people and citizens participations in international policy spaces. The emerged urgency of sustainable measures, guidelines, indicators has also inspired young researchers to provide interest groups, in the field of destination management, studies and analysis for frameworks to support the inclusion of sustainable growth principles in the planning, implementation and reporting phases of the development strategy. 

We can argue that sustainability missions and racing with purpose programs in the sport industry can be successfully explored, and are potentially able to influence business, society and tackling environmental issues and the cause of the enhancement of ocean rights.

The city should be an engine of human development and of growth. The sea is seen as an engine of economic growth and it can be also an extraordinary engine of sustainable development and expansion of people's freedoms. 

The paper shows also how cross-cutting actions planned at international and EU levels together with broad public mobilisation and engagement can produce an impact.

Furthermore the adoption of innovative forms of sustainability and citizenship which include a CA framework is a clear answer to the intergenerational ethics requests.

The aim of the paper is also to explore guidelines to support sustainable principles in the planning, implementation and reporting phases of the event organization. Sustainability events management has emerged to be necessary in communities, to protect the environment and develop the local economy. Analysis of the barriers when translating sustainability into actions within events and the lack of planning and performance standards have been under discussion.