Implementation Approach

Mercy Corps Nepal's field level implementation approach is based on the theoretical foundations of the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, which we believe captures the essence of why people are poor. The approach also incorporates inputs from the Making Markets Work for the Poor Framework, the Food Security Analytical Framework, Value Chain Analysis, Vulnerability and Capacity Analysis, the Do No Harm Framework, and SPHERE: Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response. These are complemented by Mercy Corps Nepal-specific tools and Mercy Corps' global Vision for Change.

Generally speaking, Mercy Corps' work in the field in Nepal can be divided into three themes:

Activities to influence the vulnerability context: These include activities that reduce disaster risk, improve food security and nutrition, foster collective action, or promote the inclusion of disadvantage groups, women, and youth.
Activities to improve livelihood strategies: These include activities that boost productivity and profitability, develop local enterprises, diversify livelihoods, and expand access to inputs and services for those who are normally marginalized from mainstream opportunities.
Activities to build the capacity of or improve access to Nepali institutions: These include activities that enhance the ability of Nepali organizations and institutions to serve their constituencies or to reach new constituencies, or activities that help vulnerable or marginalized groups to have increased access to institutions, services, and opportunities.