Consultation and Participation

Frequently Asked Questions

About Consultation and Participation (C&P)

What is C&P?

Consultation and other forms of participation – “C&P” – is a process though which stakeholders influence and share control over development initiatives, and the decisions and resources that affect them.

What are the benefits of C&P?

C&P improves the effectiveness, relevance, and sustainability of development activities. It contributes to good governance, economic growth, and the empowerment and social inclusion of disadvantaged groups. Evaluations of ADB-financed projects conclude that one of the factors contributing to a successful project is that “a participatory approach with involvement of beneficiaries/stakeholders was adopted at all phases.” (Source:“Common Factors Contributing to Successful Projects,” 2006 Annual Evaluation Review, ADB, 2006).

How much does it cost to apply C&P in projects?

Costs vary greatly by the type of project. They tend to be higher for participatory projects in their early phases, but then provide a payoff in terms of greater effectiveness and sustainability in later phases. For ADB-financed projects, the main costs of applying C&P include the share of the project preparation and technical assistance budget needed to develop and begin implementation of a C&P plan, and the portion of review missions and other follow-up activities used to monitor the plan’s implementation.

What kinds of projects are amenable to C&P?

Participatory methods can be used in all kinds of projects, including policy-based lending and large infrastructure activities, not just poverty reduction and social projects. A minimum requirement is that ADB, the government, and key stakeholders mutually agree to implement a participatory process.

Are there places where participation works particularly well?

Yes—where stakeholders are willing to participate and where there are clear benefits, no conflicts over basic goals, and prior favorable experience with C&P.

Are there situations where C&P is not appropriate?

Very few. More limited participation may be appropriate at the earliest stage of emergency response, and in post-conflict situations, and in situations where the government strongly opposes participation. The key is to design a C&P approach tailored to opportunities and constraints unique to the particular situation.

How much C&P is enough in a project?

Developing a solid C&P plan [ PDF ] is a good way to assess adequacy of C&P. The adequacy of C&P does not occur in a vacuum. It depends on the activity’s scope and objectives, complexity of stakeholder interests, and other social and political factors in the setting. Activities that involve high social, economic, or environmental risks, or central objectives promoting participation and empowerment, will require more and deeper participation throughout the project cycle.

What if a group refuses to come to the table or an impasse has been reached in consultations on a proposed project?

First, assess how critical the group is to successful preparation and implementation. If the group is vital to the project and refuses to cooperate – even with a continued effort to engage it – then one might need to consider mediation, a significant change to the design, or, as a last resort, abandoning the project.

Where can one go for training?

ADB provides its staff training in participation-related areas, including C&P, cooperation with civil society organizations, and implementation of ADB safeguard policies. In addition, there are many reputable institutes with expertise in training on participatory methods, such as the International Institute for Rural Reconstruction* in the Philippines, the Institute for Participatory Practices* (PRAXIS) in India, and INTRAC* in the United Kingdom.