If Randomised Control Trials (RCTs) improve global development outcomes – why then are we still fighting about them?

By Priya Chattier Have Randomised Control Trials (RCTs) contributed to reducing global poverty by generating rigorous scientific evidence which is turned into effective public policy? While the ‘randomistas’ proffer RCTs as the most rigorous approach to impact evaluation, there has been a pushback from critics on its gold-standard claim. This debate was at the heart …

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The Women’s movement: so much momentum, but still miles to go

By Priya Chattier In light of COVID-19, the 64th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) to be held in New York was cancelled. The annual event usually brings together delegates from member states to report on their commitments to Beijing Platform for Action (BPA) on gender equality and women’s empowerment. …

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Why aren’t aid projects making better use of research and evidence, and what can we do about it?

By Lavinia Tyrrel and Priya Chattier Does research and evidence really make a tangible difference in Australian aid for development? Or are we just kidding ourselves that we are solving complex development challenges and making a lasting impact? And if we are, how can we make better use of research and evidence that not only …

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