The Behavioral Insights Research and Design (BIRD) Lab, initiated and co-facilitated by Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), with a funding from Norad, has successfully conducted a landmark study titled “Adaptive WASH behavior’s Research in Protracted and Climate-Affected Settings.” This study provides critical evidence to inform water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programming in fragile and climate-stressed contexts.
A Strong Research Partnership
The research was delivered through strong multi-institutional collaboration. The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) offered overall leadership, guiding the methodological design and providing comprehensive training to research assistants. IDS ensured high-quality data collection and full adherence to ethical standards throughout the study.
Why This Research Matters
Complementing this work, the Chr. Michelsen Institute (CMI) led a high-level multi-stakeholder workshop in Addis Ababa. The workshop convened key informants, sector specialists, policymakers, and practitioners, creating an important platform for validating findings, deepening contextual understanding, and translating research insights into practical and adaptive WASH strategies.
This research responds to the increasing urgency of understanding how communities adopt WASH behaviors in protracted crises and climate-affected settings—contexts where conventional approaches often fall short. The findings are expected to guide adaptive programming, contribute to policy dialogue, and inform future investments in resilient WASH interventions.
BIRD Lab’s Commitment
The BIRD Lab is proud to be part of this collaborative achievement and remains committed to generating actionable behavioral evidence that strengthens development and humanitarian responses in Ethiopia and similar contexts globally.