A relational approach to human development in a crisis : perspectives from two case studies in South Africa during COVID-19

Abstract

This research joins people-centered approaches to development in understanding how social relationships are integrated into the efficacy of human development organizations in South Africa during a crisis. It positions itself within a Relational Thinking approach. A relational tool was applied to measure the relational dynamics within two organizations in South Africa who provided support to people economically affected by the COVID-19 crisis and the accompanying lockdowns. An existing computer-generated program called the Relational Health Audit (RHA) was used to study the proximity or distance between individuals and groups in their organizations. The findings show the relational footprint of development organizations due to deepened connections, continuity, understanding of context, sensitivity to power dynamics and commonality. These relationships allowed quick adjustments and responses to people’s needs in the crisis. Through a relational approach, the article highlights why development cannot simply be viewed through a singular lens, but instead needs to be understood through a wide ranging and open-ended set of inquiries into systems, interventions, and outcomes.