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Handling Socio-institutional Traps–Inertia Towards Australia’s Resilient International Development Aid Programs in the Solomon Islands

Author

Listed:
  • Mark Opoku Amankwa

    (School of Science, Edith Cowan University Indo-Pacific Research Centre, Murdoch University, Murdoch)

  • Kwadwo Adusei-Asante

    (School of Science, Edith Cowan University)

  • Alina Novak

    (Indo-Pacific Research Centre, Murdoch University, Murdoch)

Abstract

This study critically examines how donor’s aid delivery approach, entrenched socio-institutional dynamics, and the Solomon Islands’ complex political economy create persistent barriers to Australia’s aid programming. Through a desktop research approach, institutional trap–inertia theory is applied to analyze how Australia’s aid efforts and political structures perpetuate aid inertia. The study critiques both Australia’s aid delivery approach and the internal governance challenges in a cohesive society of the SI, highlighting their intertwined roles in impeding Australia’s aid programming. The article proffers context-driven, locally adaptive strategies aimed at overcoming institutional traps and fostering more resilient and effective aid interventions .

Suggested Citation

  • Mark Opoku Amankwa & Kwadwo Adusei-Asante & Alina Novak, 2025. "Handling Socio-institutional Traps–Inertia Towards Australia’s Resilient International Development Aid Programs in the Solomon Islands," Journal of Developing Societies, , vol. 41(2), pages 216-241, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jodeso:v:41:y:2025:i:2:p:216-241
    DOI: 10.1177/0169796X251322256
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    References listed on IDEAS

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