Researchers at Trinity College Dublin are investigating the impact of overseas development aid. The Trinity Impact Evaluation (TIME) research group will work with aid agencies, policymakers and governments to figure out whether development assistance can bring about real change in the lives of some of the poorest people in the world. It hopes to show what type of development aid works so that countries can make a real impact through overseas aid donations.
Carol Newman, an associate professor of economics at the university, said the new research group would contribute to the global debate on development aid by identifying whether certain processes worked or not.
“Official development assistance is a significant and important source of financing for developing countries,” Ms Newman added.
“Ireland’s aid programme amounts to over €600 million annually. Understanding what works and why is crucial in informing development aid decisions and in ensuring that aid and investments are targeted towards areas where they can have the greatest impact.”
The group has already begun overseas research including an Irish Aid-funded project in Uganda that explores the link between nutrition and HIV treatment.
