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Theory of Change in Multi-country Advocacy Programmes: Usage, Relevance and Implications for Local Ownership

Author

Listed:
  • Margit van Wessel

    (Margit van Wessel is the corresponding author (Margit.vanwessel@wur.nl) and is affiliated with Wageningen University & Research, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands.)

  • Wenny Ho

    (Wenny Ho, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.)

  • Peter A. Tamas

    (Peter A. Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.)

Abstract

Theory of change is often endorsed and used to support within-country programming. This country-level use, however, remains unexplored. This study investigates country-level use in a multi-country advocacy programme to understand its local operation and effects. In line with prescriptions, it focuses on adaptability to country-specific conditions. Examining experiences of staff of civil society organizations involved, this article finds that theory of change provides guidance and coordination for local actors, that it has limited relevance for strategizing and that it fails to recognize local assets on which outcomes depend. The article concludes that the manner in which theory of change is used can either handicap or facilitate local ownership of advocacy. It concludes by offering a way of approaching theory of change that is more sensitive to the local assets and ownership on which advocacy outcomes are dependent.

Suggested Citation

  • Margit van Wessel & Wenny Ho & Peter A. Tamas, 2025. "Theory of Change in Multi-country Advocacy Programmes: Usage, Relevance and Implications for Local Ownership," Progress in Development Studies, , vol. 25(2), pages 140-156, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:prodev:v:25:y:2025:i:2:p:140-156
    DOI: 10.1177/14649934251384705
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gerard Prinsen & Saskia Nijhof, 2015. "Between logframes and theory of change: reviewing debates and a practical experience," Development in Practice, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 25(2), pages 234-246, February.
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    3. Margit Van Wessel & Dorothea Hilhorst & Lau Schulpen & Kees Biekart, 2020. "Government and civil society organizations: Close but comfortable? Lessons from creating the Dutch “Strategic Partnerships for Lobby and Advocacy”," Development Policy Review, Overseas Development Institute, vol. 38(6), pages 728-746, November.
    4. Kate Pincock & Alexander Betts & Evan Easton-Calabria, 2021. "The Rhetoric and Reality of Localisation: Refugee-Led Organisations in Humanitarian Governance," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 57(5), pages 719-734, May.
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