3.1 Understanding the context
Why conduct a context scan?
The WEFe Framework 2.0 aims to develop specific interventions to improve WEFe nexus performance, considering local, regional, and national socio-ecological contexts. To achieve this, it conducts a context scan, which gathers socio-economic, environmental, and governance information relevant to the intervention.
Rather than providing a full description of the area, the scan focuses on key aspects influencing implementation (for example, if water scarcity is a concern, the analysis will examine water resources, consumption, regulations, and conflicts to ensure realistic and effective solutions).
Definitions context scan
Context refers to the external environment in which the case is embedded, which is assumed to be relatively stable over a longer period of time.
The context is not amenable to change. It refers to the various conditions, circumstances, and environments that surround and influence actors, their interactions, and outcomes. It can encompass a wide range of factors, including social, cultural, economic, political, historical, and geographical elements.
How to do a context scan?
The context scan is primarily based on desk research, including institutional reports and public statistics, and can be supplemented with key informant interviews if necessary. The depth of the analysis varies depending on available resources, but it is recommended to gain a broad understanding of the social and territorial aspects of the focal area. The download below provides broad questions to facilitate data collection, ensuring a better understanding of the study area's context.
Download guiding questions to understand the context of the focal area
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If it is not possible to obtain data that fully match the study area, information can be collected at a broader level. Understanding of the local context will improve throughout the implementation of the WEFe Framework 2.0. If different boundaries are used due to a lack of data, this should be indicated in the report/Nexus Bridging Plan.
Expected output
As the main output of the context scan, it is suggested to elaborate a context description that answers the questions outlined above in a precise and concise manner. This context description can be complemented during the process of implementing the WEFe Framework 2.0. It will be included in the final Nexus Bridging Plan.