Mainstreaming Institutional Resilience and Systems Strengthening in Donor Policies and Programming

Abstract

This rapid review synthesises evidence on key aspects of mainstreaming institutional resilience and systems strengthening in donor policies and programming in FCAS (Fragile and Conflict-affect States) contexts, particularly in nutrition (food security), health, WASH and the economic sector. Institutional resilience is the ability of a social system (society, community, organisation) to absorb and recover from external shocks, while positively adapting and transforming to address long-term changes and uncertainty. Investing in strong, well-functioning and adaptable social systems, such as health, education and social protection systems, can build resilience, as this help to cushion the negative economic and social effects of crises. While development actors have established guidance on how institutions can be made more effective, inclusive and accountable, there is much less literature on institutional resilience and how development actors can help to foster it. Much of the literature notes a lack of systematic evidence on applying the concept of resilience. These gaps extend to a dearth of guidance on how development actors can mainstream institutional resilience and systems strengthening into their policies and programmes. This rapid review draws on common factors discussed in the literature that are considered important to the strengthening of resilience and particular systems. These may, in turn, provide an indication of ways in which to mainstream institutional resilience and systems strengthening into development policy and programming

Perspective chapter: Institutional Structural Reform and Sustainable Resilience

“…In order to achieve legitimacy and sustainability, institutional capacity-building and reform projects must connect with a country's social and political framework. Moreover, development cooperation actors are expected to seek, identify and build on local knowledge, experience and existing sources of resilience in order to strengthen institutional resilience [14]. It helps to mitigate the harmful economic and social consequences of crises, as Strupat and Marschall put it [15].…”

Benefits of the medicine–pediatrics trained hospitalist

“…Institutional resilience is an emerging concept that emphasizes an institution's ability to alleviate strain on individual team members. It can be defined as “the ability of a social system to absorb and recover from shocks, while positively adapting and transforming to address long‐term changes and uncertainty.” 8 Med‐peds hospitalists provide this needed flexibility and adaptability to meet ever‐changing patient care, and healthcare system needs creating institutional resilience.…”