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Rwandan developmental ‘social engineering’: What does it imply and how is it displayed?

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  • Malin Hasselskog

    (School of Global Studies; Peace and Development Research, University of Gothenburg, PO Box 700; S 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden)

Abstract

Rwandan development policy is frequently referred to as ‘social engineering’. As this concept is not analytically clear and carries negative connotations, this article elaborates on its meaning. An analytical framework is developed and applied to selected Rwandan policies and programmes, as depicted in government documents, academic writing and field work. The analysis points to far-reaching social engineering in terms of visionary design, depoliticized managerialism, firm and partly coercive implementation, state–population separation and paternalism. In the conclusion, impressive results as well as problematic aspects are discussed, as are the negative connotations and the legitimate use of social engineering.

Suggested Citation

  • Malin Hasselskog, 2015. "Rwandan developmental ‘social engineering’: What does it imply and how is it displayed?," Progress in Development Studies, , vol. 15(2), pages 154-169, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:prodev:v:15:y:2015:i:2:p:154-169
    DOI: 10.1177/1464993414565533
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kantola, Anu & Seeck, Hannele, 2011. "Dissemination of management into politics: Michael Porter and the political uses of management consulting," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 49805, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    2. Sebastian Silva-Leander, 2008. "On the Danger and Necessity of Democratisation: trade-offs between short-term stability and long-term peace in post-genocide Rwanda," Third World Quarterly, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 29(8), pages 1601-1620.
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    Cited by:

    1. Dawson, Neil & Martin, Adrian & Sikor, Thomas, 2016. "Green Revolution in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implications of Imposed Innovation for the Wellbeing of Rural Smallholders," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 78(C), pages 204-218.

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