Peacebuilding with Impact

This paper summarizes the findings of research that reviewed 38 theories of change selected from 19 peace-building projects in three conflict-affected peace-building projects in Uganda, Nepal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Findings were that use of a TOC approach:

1. Clarifies project logic and tackles inadequate assumptions
2. Identifies the appropriate actors to work with
3. Identifies the gaps between local and national level changes
4. Highlights ineffective activities
5. Emphasizes the need for conflict analysis
6. Enhances conflict sensitivity
7. Fosters collaboration between agencies and avoids duplication.

Nevertheless, the case studies demonstrate the limitation of theories of change approach because

1. Many theories of change are non-explicit, vague or inappropriate
2. Current project planning tools don't help people articulate their theories of change
3. Conflict analysis is essential but rarely done
4. Gathering evidence is difficult
5. Critical review of theories of change needs to be undertaken in conjunction with other forms of evaluation.