The contributions of faith-based organizations to development and the humanitarian field: An ADRA case study

The purpose of this paper is to explain the contributions of faith-based organizations (FBOs) to development and the humanitarian field. To do this, we used mixed methods research to conduct a case study of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), evaluating its mission,mandate, organizational resources, and activities conducted in 136 countries around the world. We argue that the contributions of FBOs to development and the humanitarian field are explained by the interplay of their identity, resources, and opportunities to do good. The paper concludes with recommendations for FBOs as we move toward the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, while improving delivery for beneficiaries, and simultaneously upholding human rights and their core values

A-2 The Role of Faith-Based Organizations in Development: ADRA’s Contribution

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in the field of development and humanitarian action using faith-based typologies from the literature. Mixed methods research is used to conduct a case study of the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), evaluating its mission, mandate, organizational structure, and activities conducted in more than 125 countries. We argue that ADRA’s contribution to the humanitarian field is heavily influenced by its core principles but also by its ability to secure internal and external funding. The paper concludes with recommendations for FBOs as we move toward the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, while improving delivery for beneficiaries, and upholding human rights and their core values

P-06 Hungry for Attention: The Right to Food in Madagascar

Surprisingly and unfortunately, in spite of the fertile arable land and a favorable climate, Madagascar is one of the most chronically food insecure countries in the world. In southern regions, where droughts are most frequent, food insecurity affects 68 percent of households. The “right to food” is a fundamental human right and its realization is essential to the fulfillment of other human rights. To realize people’s right to food means to both empower people and hold governments accountable. The degree of food insecurity in Madagascar can be used as a proxy for the degree to which the right to food has been realized. In light of this, the state of Madagascar has failed in its obligation to respect its citizens’ right to food and this failure should lead to questions about the sovereignty rights of Madagascar at the very least, and even the legitimacy of the state itself. Not only has Madagascar failed in its obligation to respect its citizens’ right to food, it has also failed to both protect and fulfill the right to food within its borders. Our research attempts to answer the question: “What are the perceptions of the Malagasy people towards the right to adequate food?” We explore similarities and differences in perceptions between citizens, civil society members, and government