Pacific NGOs weighing up our research capacities

Abstract

This article details basic findings from a stocktake by five Pacific NGOs into their research capacities, as part of their monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL). Based on a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews among ourselves, we explore how many of our staff are engaged in research activities and we find this number does not seem to increase as we grow as NGOs. We also illustrate the notable extent to which we depend on external consultants for our research, before we provide insights into the spheres, complexity, and character of research we undertake ourselves. Finally, we conclude that a critical reflection on research in NGOs can assist in charting more locally driven strategies.