The Overseas Development Institute (ODI) as part of its Research and Policy in Development (RAPID) program, has looked at the links between research and policy for several years. This handbook presents work in progress on tools for policy impact particularly targeted at civil society organizations, whose activities involve gathering evidence, doing research, and putting forth strategies for social, environmental, and economic development. The handbook offers a wide variety of tools relating to research, context assessment, communication, and policy influence.

In May, 2012, NDI organized 10 public debates for candidates competing in the June 3, 2012, commune council elections.  To promote a wider audience than the public in attendance, NDI recorded and broadcast the debates prior to the election on three Cambodian radio stations. NDI commissioned a Cambodian research firm to conduct a 1,200 person survey from Aug. 16 to Sept. 4, 2012, approximately three months after the debates and election occurred. 

In November and December, 2012, NDI held four, three-day training workshops for 96 women commune councilors from the ruling and opposition parties to strengthen their advocacy, message development and speaking skills and to build their capacity and influence within their parties and elected office. As a result of the workshops, women commune councilors were able to craft a political message and better define advocacy goals.

AMMAN, Jordan – An international observation delegation fielded by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) said yesterday’s Jordanian parliamentary elections saw a marked improvement in procedures and administration from past polls.  But it also found election day shortcomings and irregularities, as well as a number of systemic distortions.