The consultation practice of Northern NGOs: a study of British organizations in Guatemala

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents the findings of research carried out in 1998–99 into the practices of seven British NGOs and solidarity organizations in consulting with local partner organizations in Guatemala. It considers this practice in the context of both the academic literature and the statements and intentions of the NGOs studied. The research found that while there was consultation on country‐specific issues, there was limited consultation on their broader programmes, strategies or advocacy work. Although the British NGOs claimed that they consulted for their own effectiveness, to strengthen local organizations and strengthen their partnership with these organizations, there was little evidence to suggest that their actual practice of consultation achieved these aims. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.