ABSTRACT
The previous chapters have highlighted the processes of concentration that characterize the geographic choices of international NGOs. After having established some of the causes of this concentration, this chapter focuses on the consequences of concentration, notably on the effects on cooperation between local NGOs. The consequences of concentration are little understood: does it simulate
cooperation, or does it lead to competition among NGOs? Authors such as Cooley and Ron (2002) argue that increased concentration of local organizations turns them into strategically and opportunistically operating entities aiming to secure their own survival. Consequently, NGOs tend to put more time and effort into obtaining funding, rather than directly assisting the poor. Yet, other authors stress the benefits that the local population may gain from cost-sharing between NGOs, referred to as complementarities, when NGOs are located close to one other (Barr and Fafchamps 2005). The first aim of this chapter is to assess whether the concentration of NGOs is likely to lead to strategic and unproductive behaviour or will lead to better outcomes for the target population. This could inform the future decisions of donors regarding their policies on geographic targeting. The second objective of this chapter is to review the usefulness of game
simulation as a research methodology. While there is ample experience with surveys and questionnaires as research tools, experimental methods have been used far less, particularly in the context of developing countries. The latter methods can, however, be especially useful for gaining insight into the behavioural consequences of where NGOs choose to locate. The specific game developed for this purpose was repeated eight times with different Tanzanian NGOs. The game was played in Tanzania, in the Arusha region, as this is a country where many international and national NGOs are active (see Chapters 4 and 5). To check the validity of the game simulation the results are juxtaposed with those of a survey conducted among the same local NGOs. While a number of similarities in the outcomes of the two research methodologies exist, also some consistent discrepancies manifested themselves. The research uses these overlaps and contradictions to engage in a critical discussion of the merits and demerits of game simulation as a research methodology.
