Participatory methods expand the role and voice of clients in program design, implementation, and evaluation. When well-managed and resourced, they can empower refugee clients and improve services. Participation is a continuum: it can range from informing to consulting to full ownership. Approaches along the continuum vary by time and resource commitment as well as skills needed for both staff and clients. This guide discusses the participation continuum; how to support successful participatory engagement; specific methods and when to use them; and resources for learning more about the power, potential, and practicality of participatory methods.
Participation as a Continuum
Participation is a continuum, and each method along the continuum has its benefits and drawbacks. Different levels of participation are going to be feasible at different times for each individual organization or program. Participation may not always be feasible in every case. But it is useful to remember the range of participation approaches and how you may be able to include them.
Participatory monitoring and evaluation (M&E) methods seek to increase client voice, agency, or power in programs. They result in programs that are more responsive and appropriate for client needs.
