Leiden University Student Repository

Vera, Simon (2024)

Good governance for whom: The case of institutional frameworks in Dutch water development aid in Africa

Bachelor thesis | Afrikaanse talen en culturen (BA)

This thesis investigates the continuity of institutional frameworks in development aid, using the case study of Dutch water development aid in Africa. Through the concept of path dependency, development theories of the 1950s, specifically growth theory, became the base for future development paradigms such as good governance and Aid for Trade. Because of this continuation, institutional frameworks became imbedded in international aid. Although water aid developed in a different context, it was heavily influenced by these same paradigms. Using the case of the Netherlands, this thesis proves that aid and institutional frameworks are interconnected. At the same time, it argues that this is not for altruistic reasons to help the recipient country, but is used as an instrument to create an enabling environment for the economic interests of the donor country. To reform aid in a manner which is sustainable for all sides, this thesis argues we need to step away from these Western socio...Show moreThis thesis investigates the continuity of institutional frameworks in development aid, using the case study of Dutch water development aid in Africa. Through the concept of path dependency, development theories of the 1950s, specifically growth theory, became the base for future development paradigms such as good governance and Aid for Trade. Because of this continuation, institutional frameworks became imbedded in international aid. Although water aid developed in a different context, it was heavily influenced by these same paradigms. Using the case of the Netherlands, this thesis proves that aid and institutional frameworks are interconnected. At the same time, it argues that this is not for altruistic reasons to help the recipient country, but is used as an instrument to create an enabling environment for the economic interests of the donor country. To reform aid in a manner which is sustainable for all sides, this thesis argues we need to step away from these Western socio-economic paradigms, to include indigenous forms of knowledge and encourage participation of non-western actors. Only then, aid can become truly useful for those who need it the most.Show less

Author

Vera, Simon

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Supervisors

de Wit, S.

ECTS Credits

10

Language

en