The local level institutions study : local   institutions and service delivery in Burkina Faso

Swamy, Anand; Grootaert, Christiaan; Gi-Taik Oh

The local level institutions study : local institutions and service delivery in Burkina Faso

Swamy, Anand | Grootaert, Christiaan | Gi-Taik Oh

The precise definition of "institutions" and "social capital" is being debated, as is the extent to which these two ideas overlap; however, for the purpose of this paper its concepts will not be solved, rather the paper discusses what has been learned about social capital in Burkina Faso, following a description on the characteristics of households, their performance, or outcomes in various economic, and social dimensions, and their participation in association activity. Based on data sources, a summary of the current situation in the country regarding various social, and economic outcomes presents the variables to be explored, such as per capita expenditure, poverty indicators, and social conditions. However, in the search to measure a community's ability to cooperate for mutual benefit - as per Putnam's pioneering approach (1993) - the authors stipulate this ability to cooperate should be reflected in the formation of associations to promote the common good of their members. The paper then provides a description of the number, and types of organizations that exist, to then discuss in detail, the characteristics of the most important associations, and provides statistics on the relationship between social capital, poverty, and income. It is finally highlighted that the particular dimension of social capital, that one embodied in relations between communities, and governmental institutions is lacking. Specifically in areas where the government could play a large role (access to education, health, and credit), such associations need to fill the gap.

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