Project: Active Citizens and Accountable Local Government
Evaluation Date: November 2012
Report: [report link]
Lesson Learned:

Compromise is often a necessary element of successful advocacy processes. Imperfect legislation for pedestrian’s rights can be better than no legislation, particularly when amendments can be introduced later. The original project proposal had included the development and drafting of legislation. However, when the Ministry of the Interior (MoI) launched a bill, IP determined that it would make more sense to engage in and influence the MOI’s proposal rather than seek to push their own initiative. IP engaged in a dual-pronged stategy during the advocacy process that included both constructive and frequent dialogue with the MoI on the content of the law as well as civic activism to pressure parliament on approval of the legislation.

Theme: Women's empowerment
Project: Strengthening Democratic Participation Among Indigenous Peoples of Oaxaca, Mexico
Evaluation Date: May 2014
Report: [report link]
Lesson Learned:

The comparative diagnostic study on Federal and State legislation laid the foundations for holding forums for consultation and the promotion of Constitutional Reform, and for drafting an internal document for the grantee. The Constitutional Reform proposal had the backing of indigenous and Afro-Mexican groups, and hence, legitimacy – an unprecedented achievement in the State of Oaxaca. These organizations have specific demands and agendas that while different, are complementary in terms of their level and content. Recognizing the need to consolidate these processes, they wish to continue receiving legal assistance and training to improve their advocacy and forge closer ties other government and civil society stakeholders.

Theme: Community activism
Project: Strengthening Democratic Participation Among Indigenous Peoples of Oaxaca, Mexico
Evaluation Date: May 2014
Report: [report link]
Lesson Learned:

The project supported a series of initiatives to guarantee respect for indigenous rights and their enforcement, and by strengthening the capacity to handle petitions and cases involving indigenous rights violations. A total of 51 dossiers were processed within the framework of the project. Five criminal cases and three agrarian conflicts were resolved. Forty-three were still pending at the time of the evaluation. The community members interviewed stated how important it was for them to have had good legal advice at no cost. The final adjudication of cases is often a lengthy process. Community authorities have already commented on the uncertainty and insecurity created by this situation, noting that the project’s support and legal assistance had been very important to them.

Theme: Community activism