Developing Local Champions and Policy Recommendation: Adaptive Capacities in Community-Based Child Safeguarding Initiatives

Abstract

This study explored the concept of adaptive capacity, which is believed to correlate with policy recommendations. Adaptive capacity is usually only applied to programs related to ecological and environmental changes. This research focuses on the Community-Based Integrated Child Protection Program (PATBM) because it is deemed relevant based on this phenomenon. In addition, it is closely linked to the context of communities with high social complexity, where cadres are key actors in child protection facing structural, cultural, and resource challenges. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach with a case study design and adopted the framework proposed by Freduah et al. (2019), which assesses adaptive capacity based on six capital dimensions: natural, cultural, human, social, political, and financial. The findings show that social and cultural capital play a dominant role through the strengthening of local networks and social norms such as the "Sirri" culture. However, limitations in human and financial capital restrict the effectiveness of interventions and resilience of programs. Political and natural capital contribute indirectly through policy support and geographical accessibility. This study highlights the importance of holistic and multi-sectoral adaptive capacity development strategies, including cadre training, village budget allocation, and inclusive community involvement. The findings of this study contribute significantly to the development of more responsive, sustainable, and contextual community-based child protection policies in rural areas.