The Swedish International Center for Local Democracy (ICLD) invites Policy Relevant Research proposal on Local Democracy. ICLD aims to better understand the role of local governments and local democratic institutions in addressing global challenges. Moreover, the proposed research should focus on problems and opportunities where there is a potential to generate innovative and transformative policies that can increase the influence of vulnerable people in the decisions made by local governments that affect their lives. Further, ICLD will prioritize research projects that include the countries where ICLD operates.

The overall objective for ICLD – Swedish International Centre for Local Democracy – is to promote the development of sustainable local democracy in OECD-DAC countries and in Sweden. ICLD characterizes a well-functioning local democracy is specifically by four core areas: equity, participation, transparency, and accountability. ICLD works in 21 countries through international training programs for local politicians and government officials as well as through municipal partnerships.

Funding for Policy Relevant Research Proposal

The candidates may apply up to 1 million SEK grants for the Policy Relevant Research on Local Democracy. Moreover, the grants allocated to all the approved projects is a maximum of 6 million SEK. Further, the candidates may use this grant in combination with other grants.

Who is eligible for the Policy Relevant Research on Local Democracy?

Candidates who apply for the Policy Relevant Research should be a researcher with deep knowledge within the field of development and democracy. Further, they must hold a PhD and is affiliated with a research institution or an accredited university or college. The research team should have a gender balance and preferably include researchers based in one of the countries being studied.

Selection Criteria

The application will be evaluated by at least two senior researchers, one of them from ICLD Advisory Group and a committee from ICLD.

Proposal evaluators will assess the proposals according to:

• Scientific quality as well as its contribution to fill a research gap,
• Novelty and originality in relation to the theme of this call,
• Likewise, the quality of the research team, including gender balance in the team,
• Further, feasibility and rigor of the project plan in relation to proposed resources (human resources, budget, schedule)/ Value for money,
• Relevance for policies and local governments, and
• Also, the potential to affect positive change.

The ICLD committee will assess the proposal according to:

• Relevance to the theme of this call,
• Communication plan and engagement with local governments,
• Relevance to ICLD International training programs as well as municipal partnerships,
• Use of innovative research approaches.

How to apply for the Research Grant at ICLD?

Candidates can apply for the Policy Relevant Research on Local Democracy by completing and submitting the online application form. Along with the application, the candidates must also attach:

• Research proposal (use ICLD´s template for research proposal)
• A CV of all the applicants

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the policy Relevant Research on Local Democracy is on 20 September 2019. The candidates will receive the information regarding their selection by 15 December 2019.