What’s it about
This practical guide from Sida introduces a structured way to carry out power analysis in development settings. It explains how understanding formal and informal power structures can help reformers identify who holds influence, how decisions are made, and where resistance or opportunities for change might lie. The report emphasizes that power is not just held by individuals or institutions, but is shaped by norms, relationships, and underlying interests.
The framework is useful for anyone working on policy or reform who needs to understand the political context, especially in complex environments. It outlines a flexible approach to analyzing power dynamics that can be adapted to different sectors and settings.
When to use it
- Early problem diagnosis
- Stakeholder engagement
- Designing policies or strategies
- Anticipating risks during implementation