Although many manuals and user guides on social analysis exist already, most neglect its application to agriculture and rural investment. To address this gap, FAO's Investment Centre Division has developed three complementary guides in a series entitled `Social analysis for agriculture and rural investment projects. The Investment Centre recognizes that work in designing, supervising, supporting and evaluating agricultural and rural investment programmes and projects will be more relevant, effective and sustainable if it is based on an understanding of the socio-economic environment, livelihoods and people's development priorities. The three topics are: Managers, Practicioners and Field Guide.

The three guides provide guidance for the application of social analysis to investment programmes and projects in agricultural and rural development. Their main messages include: Agricultural investment must be proactive, people-centred and socially inclusive. Social analysis strengthens the capacity of agricultural investment. An interdisciplinary and holistic approach to social analysis is required. Social analysis is a cross-cutting issue. The social scientist reflects the priorities of the intended beneficiaries and others. The process of social analysis contributes to building local ownership.

Available in English, French and Spanish. 

• Organization: FAO
• Pages: 218
• Year of publication: 2011
• Copyright: © FAO 2011
• Web Site: FAO