Intersection 2023, the first in-person event hosted by the South Asia Learning Collaborative, witnessed rich discussions about understanding research methods for studying agency in diverse contexts and incorporating the decolonial feminist research perspective in our practice.

Session 1: Agency & Its Measurement

The concept of agency and its role in community development interventions is rapidly evolving. The discussions & presentations in the morning session of Intersection 2023 took a deep dive into

• the measurement of agency,
• its role in social and behavior change communications (SBCC)
• case studies in the Indian context, and
• the challenges & opportunities present in

The presentations shared during are available here:

• Measuring Agency- An Overview by Lotus McDougal (Centre for GEH, UCSD)
• About Agency for All by Vikas Choudhry (Sambodhi) & Lotus McDougal (Centre for GEH, UCSD)
• Agency for All India Interventions by Shikha Rana (Sambodhi) & Shikha Bhasin (C3 India)

Session 2: Decolonial Feminist Research Methods 

• Decolonial feminist research is an approach to academic inquiry that seeks to challenge and dismantle the intersecting systems of colonialism, patriarchy, and other forms of oppression.
• It emerged from the larger field of decolonial studies and is deeply rooted in the experiences and perspectives of women and marginalized communities in postcolonial contexts.
• The presentation by Rebecka Lundgren (Centre for GEH, UCSD) & Sushmita Mukherjee (PCI India)
  
  • highlights research practices entrenched in colonialism,
  • poses self-reflexive questions about our power as researchers
  • outlines best practices we need to incorporate for make the field more inclusive and respectful of local communities and contexts.

Intersection 2023 was the beginning of a conversation around inclusive research practices around social norms and agency. We hope you join us for the long haul!

To sign up as a member, please register HERE.