Publicação
The impact of NGO´s on street children in developing countries
| Resumo: | This study examines the life trajectories of former street children in Pereira, Colombia, and investigates the role of the NGO Moi pour Toit in shaping their futures. Drawing on Life Course Theory (Elder, 1998) and Ecological Systems Theory (Bronfenbrenner, 1979), the research examines how timing, turning points, and social contexts influence development pathways. A qualitative methodology was used, combining narrative interviews with document analysis. Participants, all adults, reflect on their childhood and how the foundation's interventions impacted their lives as adults. Findings showed that Moi pour Toit worked as a critical turning point for most participants, interrupting generations of neglect, poverty, and violence by providing education, psychosocial support and stability. Education is presented as a central resource, building self-confidence and opening pathways into employment; however, obstacles such as stigma, limited networks, and structural inequality persist. Family relations were not always rebuilt after abuse and neglect: while some participants reconnected with relatives, others chose to stay no-contact due to abuse and neglect. Across narratives, different situations coexist, reflecting the resilience and agency of participants who are constrained by structural conditions. The discussion highlights that the work of NGOs can significantly redirect the life trajectories of children, while also emphasising the importance of timing and the interconnectedness of lives. Yet it is still mentioned that the limitation of NGOs' action is in contexts where violence, exclusion, and displacement are omnipresent. The study concludes that while NGOs play a transformative role, sustainable reintegration requires systemic reforms, stronger state involvement, and a reduction in stigma. |
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| Autores principais: | Pereira, Tamara Garcia |
| Assunto: | Colômbia ONG Crianças de rua Street children Street-connected children Moi pour |
| Ano: | 2025 |
| País: | Portugal |
| Tipo de documento: | dissertação de mestrado |
| Tipo de acesso: | acesso aberto |
| Instituição associada: | Universidade Nova de Lisboa |
| Idioma: | inglês |
| Origem: | Repositório Institucional da UNL |
| Resumo: | This study examines the life trajectories of former street children in Pereira, Colombia, and investigates the role of the NGO Moi pour Toit in shaping their futures. Drawing on Life Course Theory (Elder, 1998) and Ecological Systems Theory (Bronfenbrenner, 1979), the research examines how timing, turning points, and social contexts influence development pathways. A qualitative methodology was used, combining narrative interviews with document analysis. Participants, all adults, reflect on their childhood and how the foundation's interventions impacted their lives as adults. Findings showed that Moi pour Toit worked as a critical turning point for most participants, interrupting generations of neglect, poverty, and violence by providing education, psychosocial support and stability. Education is presented as a central resource, building self-confidence and opening pathways into employment; however, obstacles such as stigma, limited networks, and structural inequality persist. Family relations were not always rebuilt after abuse and neglect: while some participants reconnected with relatives, others chose to stay no-contact due to abuse and neglect. Across narratives, different situations coexist, reflecting the resilience and agency of participants who are constrained by structural conditions. The discussion highlights that the work of NGOs can significantly redirect the life trajectories of children, while also emphasising the importance of timing and the interconnectedness of lives. Yet it is still mentioned that the limitation of NGOs' action is in contexts where violence, exclusion, and displacement are omnipresent. The study concludes that while NGOs play a transformative role, sustainable reintegration requires systemic reforms, stronger state involvement, and a reduction in stigma. |
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