International Development Studies Graduate Theses

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10222/79791

This collection features MA theses completed in the department of International Development Studies (IDS) in the Faculty of Arts and Social Science. For program details on the MA in IDS please see the departmental website.

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Open Access
An Uncertain Glory of Bangladesh: Development as Freedom and Bangladesh under the Awami Regime (2009-2020)
(2021-08-17T15:15:21Z) Khan, Rajin; No; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; n/a; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; No; Dr. Ajay Parasram; Dr. Robin Oakley; Dr. Nissim Mannathukkaren
This study explores whether Bangladesh has been able to translate its achievements in the economic and social aspects of development to the political aspects of development under the Awami League (2009-2020). Contemporary evaluation methods of development often consider only the two aspects of development – economic and social. The other one – political aspect of development is often left outside the evaluation methods. Through the lens of Development as Freedom, this study explores that most achievements of Bangladesh in the social and economic aspects are indeed valid, but these achievements have not been translated to the political aspects. It concludes that these achievements have created “an uncertain glory” for Bangladesh by using Jean Drèze and Amartya Sen’s evaluation of India through their concept Development as Freedom. While Indian achievements were flawed by inequalities and the slow social advancement, the achievements of Bangladesh are mainly flawed by the deficits in political freedoms.
Open Access
THE UNHEARD VOICES OF SEX WORKERS IN INDIA: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON THE REHABILITATION AND REINTEGRATION BACK INTO SOCIETY
(2021-04-29T17:29:07Z) Pereira, Roxanne; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Meredith Ralston; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Nissim Mannathukkaren; Dr. Ingrid Waldron
The sex industry in India is full of tragedy, victimization and struggle, and embedded within in it all are the suppressed voices of women. The purpose of this research is to understand the experience, structures, process and policies that allow former sex workers to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society. When analyzing the structures, this research uncovered the resources and tools available to sex workers to reintegrate into society, such as learning a new skill, counseling sessions and becoming financial independent by obtaining a job. Understanding the victimization of sex workers through police brutality and stigmatization of sex work was fundamental to understanding the challenges of reintegration into society. This study was developed to give women who are in the sex industry an opportunity to share their stories, experiences and contribute to scholarly literature.
Open Access
THE CHALLENGES OF IDENTIFYING TRAFFICKED CHILDREN: THE EXPERIENCES OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE GHANAIAN FISHING INDUSTRY
(2021-04-26T18:32:33Z) Osei Bonsu, Francis; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; N/A; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Ifeyinwa Mbakogu; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Dr. John Cameron
This thesis uses the Ecological Systems Theory and Qualitative Research methods to explore the identification of child trafficking for labour in the Ghanaian Fishing Industry by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). The thesis also examines the multiple perceptions of child trafficking through NGOs' perspectives to reveal how NGOs manoeuvre between the internationally influenced legal concept of child trafficking and local Ghanaian perceptions. The study finds that NGOs' identification strategies are fairly holistic because they contain poverty reduction programs to address some structural causes of child trafficking and expand exploitations that constitute child trafficking to avoid confusion between the phenomenon and cultural practices. To make identification strategies more holistic, NGOs must accommodate more agency from trafficked children and support the improvement of local government systems. Poverty reduction strategies must be well-coordinated with other programs to focus on all vulnerable communities. International funding and protocols must support community-based initiatives and perceptions.
Open Access
Representations of Women and Gender Equality in the Nonprofit Sector in Ukraine
(2021-04-20T17:12:46Z) Rozhenko, Ievgeniia; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; NA; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Liesl Gambold; Dr. John Cameron; Dr. Theresa Ulicki
The problem of gender stereotypes and lack of gender sensitivity has been a persistent problem in Ukraine. Educating the population and raising awareness about gender equality has been an important focus of many women’s and feminist organizations in Ukraine. The thesis uses interviews, content analysis and existing literature to analyze how these organizations represent women and gender equality in Ukraine, if and to what degree foreign donors influence these representations, as well as how Ukrainian feminism can be defined. Using the lens of postcolonial feminism and representations, the research found that the organizations in their communication mostly represent young middle-class women and discuss strategic gender needs. Achieving gender equality is presented as a part of an effort toward European integration. However, in most other instances, gender equality is seen as a goal in itself rather than a step to achieve a certain goal. Organizations’ communication and other work is characterized by a high degree of local ownership and understanding between them and foreign donors. This is explained by increased knowledge of the region among foreign donors, but also by the fact that the organizations adopted many ideas from Western feminism and can be characterized as (neo)liberal feminist organizations.
Open Access
CAN GENDER (IN)EQUITABLE ORGANIZATIONS DELIVER FEMINIST PROGRAMMING? AN EXAMINATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CANADA’S FEMINIST INTERNATIONAL ASSISTANCE POLICY IN UGANDA
(2021-04-16T12:48:09Z) Vucetic, Nevena; No; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; n/a; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; No; Dr. Karen Foster; Dr. Jane Parpart; Dr. Theresa Ulicki
Through a focus on Ugandan civil society organisations (CSOs) receiving funding from the Government of Canada (GOC) for gender equality programming under the Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP), this research aims to uncover: how “feminist” this programming is; and the gendered reality facing women and gender-diverse persons working in the CSOs. This is used to gain an understanding of whether the state of gender equality within an organization impacts the organization’s ability to deliver gender equality programming that meets the GOC’s feminist goals for its international assistance. Findings are shared from interviews and focus groups with 14 staff members at 4 Ugandan CSOs and 7 Canadian officials, at headquarters in Ottawa and the High Commission in Nairobi, where the Ugandan programming is overseen. With interviewees consisting of different genders and positions along organizational hierarchies, a variety of perspectives are compared and contrasted to uncover a diversity of lived experiences.
Open Access
Climate Change and the Coloniality of Foodways: Linking the Replication of an Unsustainable Scale of Ruminant Consumption to Western Cultural Imperialism
(2021-04-12T13:25:16Z) Monaghan, Christopher; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Not Applicable; Anders Hayden; Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Nissim Mannathukkaren; Ajay Parasram; Nissim Mannathukkaren
This thesis examines the cultural processes attributable to a global protein transition toward climate change inducing ruminant products. It employs the theoretical lens of the colonial matrix of power to contend that a globalized nature/culture divide permits a damaging scale of ruminant consumption that is based on a relationship of servitude and shaped by the historic and contemporary forces of colonialism, capitalism, patriarchy, and racism – woven into Western cultural imperialism. Drawing on an interdisciplinary, mixed methods approach, the results show that new scales of ruminant consumption in shifted dietary preferences displaces past cultural relationships toward these animals and reformulates them in adherence to a foreign way of knowing, imagining, and being. Furthermore, the research offers insight into a Chinese cultural precedent of an alternative ruminant-human relation; that if renewed can forward a solution to mitigate the dire effects ruminant livestock contribute to the global warming of planet Earth.
Open Access
The Cuban Recipe for Food Sovereignty: Investigating the contextual variables that shape Cuba’s cuisine and food culture
(2020-12-18T14:57:24Z) Law, Courtney; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Emily Kirk; Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; John Kirk; Robert Huish
This thesis investigates the linkages and contradictions between Food Sovereignty and Slow Food’s principles within Cuba. The Cuban food system is influenced by external factors including the US embargo, broader international connections, and the tourism industry. This study analyzes the acquisition, preparation, and consumption of food in Havana to understand how food regimes impact everyday life for Habaneros. The key question of this thesis asks, how are Food Sovereignty and Slow Food principles reflected through formal and informal culinary practices in Cuba? This study also asks, how has tourism influenced Cuban cuisine and the Cuban food system? Furthermore, how have food regimes and sanctions influenced Cuban recipes in Havana? Methods include participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document review. This thesis argues that Cuban culinary practices and recipes demonstrate cultural and social perseverance against economic hardship as a result of Cuba’s centralized food system and the Cuban people’s adaptability.
Open Access
LEARNING LESSONS THROUGH EXPERIENCES WITH DISASTERS: Exploring Institutional Memory-Building and the Informing of Disaster Relief in Nova Scotia and Beyond
(2020-12-16T16:06:18Z) Wood, Jillian; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Not Applicable; Dr. Joyline Makani; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Ian McAllister; Dr. Theresa Ulicki
This thesis explores the central research question: how are lessons learned from experiences with disasters? Based on three case studies detailing Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office’s experiences responding to the Swissair flight 111 crash, Hurricane Juan, and the H1N1 virus, follow-up activities to relief efforts are analyzed and some shared ‘lessons learned’ are identified. Specific approaches to evaluating and adapting policies/projects from within the Red Cross, as well as systems for building and preserving institutional memory from within the World Bank, are also discussed. Within the general framework of a ‘capacities and vulnerabilities analysis’, an analysis of relevant literature suggests that the value placed on institutional memory-building and linking ‘lessons learned’ with context-specific ‘changes to behaviour’, will influence relief organizations’ ability to respond effectively to disasters.
Open Access
BORDER TRANSGRESSIONS AS A FORM OF SURVIVAL FOR THE DOWNTRODDEN ZIMBABWEANS: THE CASE OF BEITBRIDGE BORDER POST, 2000 – 2020
(2020-12-15T15:06:10Z) Muzondo, Tinashe; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Not Applicable; John Cameron; Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Theresa Ulicki; David Black
The economic meltdown in Zimbabwe forced many people to engage in informal livelihood pursuits. This thesis documents the dynamics of informal cross-border trade and extends a justified contextualisation of this phenomenon by drawing upon government reports, news articles and previous literature. The study starts by tracing the socio-political and economic crisis that led to the proliferation of informal cross-border trade in Zimbabwe. The discussion is guided by the theoretical lens of the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach as a framework for analysis. The approach exposes the disconnect between informal cross-border trade as a livelihood strategy and its impacts on the common good for future generations. Its intrinsic individualistic tendencies are a detriment to sustainable development which is more concerned about socio-economic and environmental protection of the society. Although the efficacy of informal cross-border trade in maintaining livelihoods is apparent, its ability to preserve long-term growth at the state level remains doubtful.
Open Access
A DIFFICULT LINE TO WALK: NGO AND LGBTQ+ REFUGEE EXPERIENCES WITH INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN CANADA
(2020-08-24T17:32:12Z) Panzica, Martine; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Theresa Ulicki; Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Pauline Gardiner Barber; Elizabeth Fitting
This thesis project explores the uses of Information and Communications Technology (ICTs) between SOGIE asylum seekers and refugees in Canada and Canadian NGOs who work with these populations. Based on interviews, this project explores both benefits and challenges of using ICTs, specifically social media, in communication between these groups, especially throughout the asylum and initial settlement periods for LGBTQ+ refugees in Canada. Interviews found that ICTs are instrumental for both LGBTQ+ refugees and Canadian NGOs at all stages of the asylum and resettlement process, as these technologies greatly impact the ability to quickly research, contact, and disseminate resources. However, there are often challenges for LGBTQ+ refugees accessing Information and Communications Technology, typically based on their social location.
Open Access
GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT IN CANADA’S OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE: GAPS BETWEEN THEORY, POLICY AND PRACTICE 1970-2019
(2020-06-02T12:38:10Z) Namubiru, Annet; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Not Applicable; HEATHER SMITH; MATHEW SCHNURR; Not Applicable; THERESA ULICKI; JOHN CAMERON
The main argument of this thesis is that the gaps in the practice of equality have limited Canada’s capability to transform inequality. The research is What are the policy gaps and problems weakening Canada’s transformative gender and development policies/strategies when translated into practice? In this analysis, the development bodies to be analyzed are Canada International Development Agency (CIDA)and Global Affairs Canada (GAC)-CIDA was created in 1968, was renamed GAC in 2015 (Tiessen & Baranyi 2017; Brown 2016; Rempel 2006). Chapter one provides a brief history on how Canada has integrated gender perspectives into its development policies and the second chapter will analyze the Gender and Development (GAD) theoretical framework. In the thesis, I make it clear that the GAD perspectives such as gender equality and empowerment are commonly reflected in Canadian Foreign Policies (CFP)-what is missing are the proper tools to translate them into action. Given the fact that the thesis is analyzing the policy gaps and problems in the way Canada has put gender and development strategies into practice, I believe the GAD framework is the most suitable for identifying the issues in Canada’s gender and development policy practice. In the third chapter I analyze the practical steps taken by CIDA and GAC to implement gender and development strategies. The fourth and last chapter is a detailed discussion of the policy concerns that FAC should be aware about, recommendations. In the the final thesis conclusion, I call upon GAC to shift from integrationist, essentialist, reductionist approaches to gender and development into non-essentialist practice by rethinking its fundamental themes in an intersectional and transformative policy
Open Access
Disaster Preparedness and Response in Cuba: The Impact of Solidarity on Disaster Management
(2019-12-09T17:24:22Z) Hirtle, Jessica; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. John Kirk; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Emily Kirk; Dr. Robert Huish
This thesis examines Cuba’s disaster response and preparedness measures. The central research question asks: Is Cuba’s disaster management model effective in protecting and enhancing the livelihoods of its citizens? Following this, what are the lessons to be learned from Cuba’s approach to disaster management and protentional recommendations for other countries and disaster management organizations. What does Cuba’s disaster management system say about the concepts of human security and solidarity? This study uses a multiple methods approach, which includes the analysis of literature, interviews and observations. The results of this research demonstrate that Cuba’s disaster management model effectively organizes and responds to the needs of its citizens, which is highlighted through the reduction of vulnerabilities, and the preservation of human life, dignity and community ties. Furthermore, this research illustrates that Cuba’s national and international relief strategies emphasize, employ, and act in accordance with the ideologies of solidarity and cosmopolitanism.
Open Access
Looking to the Future with the Burdens of the Past: Exploring the Systems of Mental Health Treatment for War-Affected Youth in Northern Uganda
(2019-08-30T15:13:28Z) Steele, Peter D.; No; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Shelly Whitman; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; No; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Dr. Robert Huish
Conflict-related trauma is linked intrinsically to mental health. This reality remains ever-present in Northern Uganda, as war-affected youth continue to suffer from the lingering effects of the LRA insurgency. With struggling health infrastructure, little capacity exists to address the magnitude of this issue. In place of hospitalized treatment, many local NGOs provide a variety of mental health services. These programs range from PTSD counselling to art-based therapies. This thesis asks, how do these services help war-affected populations and how can the system be strengthened? Based on the qualitative findings from grassroots practitioners, additional funding and attention is needed to combat challenges of coordination, apathy, participation, and gaps between policy and practice. Societal issues impacting scale, stigma, and poverty must be addressed. For a working holistic model of psychological care, infrastructure, capacity and finances must be strengthened and concentrated to heal the wounds of trauma which left from decades of conflict.
Open Access
COMMUNICATING DEVELOPMENT: EXAMINING THE TENSIONS BETWEEN EFFECTIVENESS AND ETHICS IN THE MARKETING STRATEGIES OF CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT NGOS
(2019-08-29T18:00:15Z) Kwiecien, Olivia; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Ajay Parasram; Dr. Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Dr. Nissim Mannthukkaren; Dr. John Cameron
Over the last two decades, development scholars and communication practitioners have become increasingly aware of the relevance of communications in marketing development issues, as well as the influence these approaches hold over public awareness and engagement. By turning to for- profit marketing principles, non-profits seek not only to increase revenue and influence public action, but to leverage their brands and influence. In looking to the nature and diversity of NGO marketing strategies, as well as the debates that frame current marketing and development literature, this thesis examines if and how NGO communications can influence the public’s engagement with international development issues in ways that are both ethical and effective. This thesis argues that the principles of effective communications often conflict with the principles of ethical communication; however, there is very little recognition or acknowledgement of these tensions among practitioners, something which must change moving forward.
Open Access
Enacting Change: Theatre for Development and Former Child Soldiers
(2019-08-21T11:00:32Z) Courtney, Telisa; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; n/a; Matthew Schnurr; Not Applicable; Robert Huish; Jeff Karabanow; David Black
Enacting Change investigated if Theatre be used to activate Psychological processes to change attitudes toward child soldier reintegration and post-conflict community reconciliation. Twenty Lord’s Resistance Army returnees and never-recruited community members from northern Uganda participated in a four-week theatre workshop aimed at identifying community problems and practicing reconciliation skills. Workshops were accompanied by a before-during-after interview process to identify themes including productivity, alcoholism, trauma and stigma, and widow’s rights. Core attitudes underlying these themes, including advocacy, cooperation, and self-accountability, were highlighted and addressed. Participants viewed the project as successful, and high to moderate attitude change was identified in 15 participants. Possible factors underlying who changed on which topics include age, gender, and combatant status; irrespective of these, active engagement emerged as the strongest determinant of change. Limitations and conditions for future success include participant and facilitator language skills, positionality and power dynamics, consultation and communication, and adequate time and compensation.
Open Access
THE HURDLES OF MEDIATING WITH HUMANITARIAN LENS: AN EXPLORATION OF THE INTER-GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY AND DEVELOPMENT’S FAILED SOUTH SUDAN 2015 PEACE AGREEMENT
(2019-05-03T12:48:17Z) Majok, Madut; No; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Dr. Shelly Whitman; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; No; Dr. David Black; Dr. Peter Arthur
This thesis examines IGAD humanitarian focused mediation in the South Sudanese conflict that blames the warring parties entirely for failing to end the war. It particularly looks at mediation strategies deployed by IGAD and its partners as they push to address the humanitarian situation in South Sudan, and how this approach created hurdles during the negotiations process and even at the implementation phase after the parties were compelled to sign the agreement. My investigation of IGAD mediation departs from the story of unwilling warring parties who do not want to sign a peace agreement and save lives presented by IGAD by taking a holistic look at the effect of IGAD mediation timing on parties’ military expectations as well as the effect of the IGAD member states strategic consideration on their ability to enforce disputants’ compliance during the negotiations, and even at the implementation phase of the agreement. I concluded that the timing of the intervention and the agreement the disputants were compelled to sign were at odds with military expectation of the warring parties, specifically those of the government.
Open Access
Grassroots Peacebuilding in Colombia: Layers of Peacebuilding and Their Intersections
(2019-04-29T17:23:03Z) Hunt, Selina; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Elizabeth Fitting; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; Not Applicable; Dr. David Black; Dr. John Cameron
This thesis discusses the role of grassroots organizations in peacebuilding at multiple levels of society. It also examines the challenges and potential of elite-level peacebuilding, looking specifically at the case of Colombia since the 2016 accord. The thesis uses theories of Conflict Transformation and Multi-Level Peacebuilding to argue that local-level peacebuilding is essential for the sustainability of a peace accord, and that a culture of peace can only be built through the work of organizations that are rooted in community life. Through interviews with peacebuilding organizations in Colombia and the analysis of websites and publications of community peacebuilding organizations, this thesis analyzes discourses of peace. Community-based discourses are then compared to those of the state. The comparison offers insights into a way forward for sustainable peacebuilding by highlighting the unique contributions that community-based organizations offer, such as a focus on the individual psycho-social level.
Open Access
Empowering Urban Agriculture: A Case Study of Training Programs Targeting Women Farmers in Uganda
(2019-04-29T11:59:46Z) Matheson, Rachel; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. John Cameron; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; Not Applicable; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; Dr. Matthew Schnurr
Wakiso District in Uganda is undergoing rapid urbanization which is disrupting traditional agricultural livelihoods. As land and other resources become increasingly scarce, farmers are turning to urban agriculture techniques to support their households, which in turn creates new challenges. This is particularly true of women farmers who struggle to access, control, and make decisions over key agricultural resources. Caritas Kampala is a Catholic NGO working with women farmers throughout Wakiso to enhance their urban and peri-urban agriculture outcomes. This study uses a Feminist Political Ecology lens to investigate how these urban agriculture interventions impact women farmers. It argues that these programs offer many benefits to women farmers. However broader gender norms must be addressed if the program is to meaningfully impact systemic gender inequity.
Open Access
The Pains of Labour: How the Commodification of Nursing is Costing the Lives of Mothers in the Philippines
(2019-02-11T12:36:14Z) Thibodeau, Krisanne; Not Applicable; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Erna Snelgrove-Clarke; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; No; Dr. Robert Huish; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; Dr. Erna Snelgrove-Clarke; Dr. Robert Huish
The Philippines, as the largest exporter of nurses, faces challenges in its own maternal health needs. The Philippines has enormous capacity to train nurses, yet few ever care for maternal health needs in domestic communities where they are critically needed. This thesis asks how can the “Right to Development” be applied to the capacity building and retention of Filipino nurses? Could this approach morally justify the reorientation of health sector priorities to improve maternal health outcomes in the Philippines? Export-oriented nurse training leaves pressing maternal health needs unattended and weakens capacity. By applying the framework of the “Right to Development”, this thesis demonstrates how exporting nurses negatively impacts the quality of health care in the Philippines. This thesis argues that the political choice to export nurses without ensuring safe conditions for compatriots is structural violence against poor women in the Philippines by favoring economic development over the right to development.
Open Access
GENDER DYNAMICS BETWEEN INTIMATE-PARTNER BUSINESS OWNERS. A CASE STUDY OF COPRENEUR AND SOLO ENTREPRENEUR SPOUSES IN UGANDA.
(2018-12-18T11:31:05Z) Okello, Ivan; No; Master of Arts; Department of International Development Studies; Received; Dr. Nissim Mannathukkaren; Dr. Theresa Ulicki; No; Dr. Owen Willis; Dr. Theresa Ulicki
Despite being a unique category of family businesses, intimate-partner business owners, such as copreneurs and solo entrepreneurs are under-investigated - especially in the Global south. This thesis looks how gender relations influence access and control of resources and decision making between copreneurs and solo entrepreneurs with supporting spouses. Using in-depth interviews with male and female business owners in Uganda in 2017, the research highlights the motivations for business venturing, the gender division of labor in the business and household, financial resources allocation, challenges faced by intimate partner business owners and decision-making processes between the spouses. The research shows that a range of inter-sectional factors such as level of education, social class, number of children and most importantly gender influence access to and control of resources and decision-making in an Intimate-partner business venture.