A lessons learned study on social cohesion
Client: International NGOPeriod: June 2023 – August 2024Geographic focus: KyrgyzstanType: Lessons learned studyMethods: Interviews, observationFocus: Social cohesion, community engagementThis study examines what drives effective community-based social cohesion initiatives in Kyrgyzstan, drawing on a lessons-learned assessment of a multi-year project implemented across diverse local contexts. The analysis focuses on how design choices, local engagement, and partnership arrangements shape outcomes on the ground.Based on qualitative research conducted between June 2023 and August 2024, the study assessed key elements of project implementation, including approaches to community mobilization, the use of small grants, and collaboration between project teams and local partners. Rather than documenting activities, the analysis focuses on identifying transferable practices and recurring constraints.A central finding concerns the catalytic role of small grants when combined with close accompaniment and local ownership. Small-scale funding…