The Theory of Change is a reference framework to formulate the logic of a (re)integration intervention. It describes and explains how and why a result or change is expected to happen in a given context. In that regard, it can support interventions concerning migration and return migration-related factors identified during the diagnostic phase.
When should this tool be used?
It should be developed during the design phase to guide programme development and implementation. The intervention’s logic (Theory of Change) will be based on the analysis carried out in the diagnostic phase and in the analysis of obstacles (Tool 6: Overcoming Obstacles). It is recommended that the Theory of Change be outlined using a participatory approach including all agents involved in (re)integration (Tool 4: Stakeholder Analysis).
How should this tool be used?
Users can formulate a set of desirable outcomes (at several levels) in the Intervention Logic Formulation Tool. Outcome formulation must be tailored to the specific needs of migrants, returning migrants and communities within each country-specific context. The boxes for each outcome can be used to note which outcomes are relevant and how they might be adapted to fit the intervention’s logic. To guide analysis:
- See Section 5.2.1 Theory of Change, in the IOM 2020, Reintegration Handbook.
- An example concerning the Theory of Change in the (re)integration policy framework can be found in UK Government (2019) “Theory of change for achieving integration”.
- IOM Theory of Change for Counter-Trafficking