PRA and related participatory approaches have opened up new ways in which policy can be influenced by the realities of those who are poor, weak, marginalized and excluded. Based on the premise that sustainable policies require local voices to be heard, this book demonstrates the far-reaching implications of such approaches for the development sector. Comprising both chapters which were presented as papers at a workshop on participatory research and policy held at the IDS on 13-14 May 1996, and contributions to discussion groups held during the course of those two days, the book is divided into three sections. Part 1 explores case studies in which participatory methods and approaches have been used to influence policy. Part 2 concentrates on PPA (participatory poverty analysis), an innovative approach designed to bring local poverty and policy analysis into the policy process through the cross-sectoral lens of poverty. Part 3 discusses key issues arising during the IDS workshop, and includes chapters by several participants. With careful and essential research and evaluation into PRA methods and practices, this work provides clear, detailed case studies from around the world, and analysis on key development agencies, NGOs and organizations across the sector since the mid-1980s. With the increasing use of PRA methods and practices by NGOs, governments and multinational agencies, the potential impact for poor people is phenomenal. This work is aimed at professionals and policy-makers either directly involved or with a special interest in PRA approaches and methods and its impact upon policy and development.