The role of NGOS in the implementation of international agreements and their interaction with the Government of Botswana: a case study of gender links

Abstract

This study aims to understand the role played by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the implementation of international agreements in Botswana. The study is motivated by the fact that the government has not been fully engaging and involving NGOs in the development process, and this can breed problems such as policy implementation and outcomes that are not people-centric and policy failure. This study was qualitative and descriptive in design. It adopted a descriptive case study approach in order to describe the role of NGOs in the development process. The study population consisted of representatives from Gender Links and organisations working with it on implementing the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development. A total of four (4) representatives from the organisations were selected as key informants for the study. They were interviewed using a discussion guide based on the objectives of the study. The findings reflected that the roles of NGOs in the implementation of international agreements is described through three processes. They include ensuring implementation, advocacy, monitoring and sensitisation of the public. The modes of implementation of the agreements especially the SADC Gender protocol included gender mainstreaming, seeking buy-in, belonging to NGO structures and lobbying. Facilitation of NGOs in the implementation of international agreements had two ways that included facilitation by government and other forms of facilitation. The findings also indicated that gender and development progress is collective such that achievements cannot be associated with an individual organisation. Influencing policy comes through programmes that are implemented by various organisations. NGOs work closely with government departments and have a cordial relationship that have been established through a Memorandum of Understanding. Government benefits from data generated by NGOs such as from the annual progress report on the implementation of the SADC gender protocol. Challenges in implementation emanate from interaction with government, accessing government, interaction between NGOs and other challenges from the development process. The positioning of the gender function within the government systems was reported to be one of the root causes of the slow progress of gender and development. In strengthening the relationship between the sectors, the following were suggested as entry points: coordination of NGOs, consultation, information sharing and government intervention.