Assessing Capacity Development in Fragile States

This thesis provides a practical example of systematically merging elements of two approaches to Capacity Development (CD), linear and adaptive approaches, for improved assessment of CD in fragile settings. Capacity, or the ‘ability to produce’ is a core constraint in fragile settings, both shaping and exacerbating fragility. In both fragile and non-fragile contexts, efforts to improve capacity through development projects have largely used linear approaches, based on pre-determined inputs and outputs as well as skill-based technical capacity. These efforts have underperformed throughout development contexts. In fragile settings where numerous, intertwined complex factors shape fragility and constrain capacity, technical linear approaches are particularly ill suited to addressing underlying capacity challenges. Adaptive, or systems-based, approaches incorporate a wider range of capacities, including adaptation and relationships.^ ^Adaptive approaches may be more appropriate in fragile settings. There are also practical advantages of linear approaches, particularly for governments and financiers: they outline clear, easily understandable steps; cover defined timeframes; and focus on