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Social capital, dialogue and development

05/06/2009 By Martin Cox

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The purpose of this paper, by Martín Cox, is to identify and define opportunities to conciliate interests and generate capacity for dialogue in areas of conflict arising from development processes. The perspective of this analysis focuses on the sectors of civil society that are not sufficiently involved in the task of development and those areas where a more inclusive social dialogue is needed.

Emphasis is placed on capacity building and increasing social capital as instruments for overcoming conflict and interacting with entities of a different nature. The article reflects on the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI), development cooperation and civil society organisations (CSOs) in the context of developing countries, from the perspective of conflicts, deficiencies and possible synergies within the framework of processes of economic and social development. Peru and Angola are briefly mentioned as examples for discussion in the light of the plans and programmes of Spanish cooperation.

The article also refers to the possible ways in which these interactions might influence national agendas with an emphasis on empowerment processes that are necessary for strengthening social capital, social cohesion and the building of a new and more inclusive social contract. The article finishes by highlighting the role of - and opportunities available to - companies, the state and the various activities of international cooperation in this field.

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Keywords

Bolivia Civil society Democratisation Ecuador Latin America & Caribbean Peace process

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Bio author: Martin Cox

Former associate researcher for FRIDE for the project on foreign investment, CSR and international development actors.