Research Theme 2
🏗 Governance & Political Economy
Analysing the structures of power, policy and institutions that shape development outcomes in Africa
About This Research Theme
Development outcomes in Africa are shaped not only by resources and services, but by the political and institutional environments in which people live. This research theme examines how governance structures, economic policies, legal frameworks and international aid flows affect human development — and where reform is most urgently needed.
We ask: how do political economies determine who benefits from development? How can social policy be designed to protect the most vulnerable? And how can human rights frameworks and foreign aid be made more effective instruments for lasting change?
Topics Covered
- 🏗 Political Economy
- ⚖️ Human Rights
- 📜 Social Policy
- 💰 Foreign Aid
- 🛡 Human Security
Latest Research: Governance & Political Economy
Our most recent work on governance, rights, policy and political economy across Africa.
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Between elite power and social mobilisation in Nigeria
‘Leave no one behind’ is the catchphrase of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As development challenges become multifaceted and…
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New directions in social policy: lessons from and for Nigeria
Social policy is a package of public interventions that aim to guarantee adequate and secure livelihoods, income and well-being, and…
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Sub-Saharan Africa and achieving the SDG target for drinking water
Achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030 is a target of the…
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Strategies for sustainable cities in Africa
The Sustainable Development Goals have increased conversations around how cities and towns can be planned and organised to fulfil their…
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Humanitarian health assistance and local government synergy in Angola
The Sustainable Development Goal three seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all peoples at all ages. Providing…
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Africa and measuring the sustainable development goals
Many African countries lack the capabilities to plan, manage and do the research required for successful formulation, implementation and evaluation…
Explore Other Research Themes
Our research spans people and services, sustainability and human development across Africa.
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