Communication and Community Participation: Focus on the Role of NGOs in Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine the role of communication in NGOs in Pakistan and to discuss the participation by the community. The investigation has been made from the perspective of academicians, regulatory body officials, social activists, and communication and development professionals. To achieve this purpose, ten in-depth face to face interviews were conducted with selected respondents. This study provides guidelines for development professionals and non-government organizations (NGOs) who work to improve the life of marginalized communities through social services. The results are hoped to be beneficial for both NGOs and communities. The information obtained can generate further discussion among communication and development practitioners. The paper also provides information for further studies on community cohesion and presents strategies for dealing with communication and community participation problems in development projects.