Exploring the Association between Poverty, Livelihoods, Institutions, and Sustainable Community Development. A Conceptual Analysis

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to assess the links or interfaces between poverty, livelihoods, institutions, and sustainable community development through a literature review. To realize this objective, the study used the Department for International Development’s (United Kingdom) Sustainable Livelihoods Approach as an overarching theoretical foundation. A descriptive method of data analysis using secondary data and a qualitative research approach were followed. The current state of the problem has been explored by means of a deductive approach. The results of the conceptual analysis show that the interactions between poverty, livelihoods, institutions, and community development are significant. The study also revealed that institutions are crucial for the formation of livelihood possibilities and strategies for the poor and marginalized groups, and they play a significant role in sustainable development. Existing empirical evidence demonstrates that livelihood outcomes may be positive or negative based on vulnerability contexts, the nature of livelihood, institutional frameworks, and livelihood strategies followed. The study concludes that institutional influence is pivotal since it directly or indirectly affects the access to livelihood, determines livelihood strategies and outcomes. Policymakers are therefore expected to consider and comprehend the relationship between these notions before formulating policies, plans or programs to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development effectively.