Participatory development in the third world: how can the international and third world communities work together in development efforts

Abstract

This study explores explore how the role of grassroots organizations can make development initiatives more effective and how to empower these organizations so they can lead development efforts in the Third World. This research focuses on whether there can be a space in the development discourse for a dialogue between local knowledges and Western development initiatives. To analyze more in depth the problems with applying mainstream development theories in the Third World, this study describes how Western forms of knowledge in mainstream development have affected women in the Third World. Participatory approach combined with grassroots initiatives can change the way development projects are applied and eventually help development initiatives move away from a Western centered view of the notion of the Third World. Participation means opening a space for a dialogue between Western development experts and Third World communities on what development means and what actions should be taken.