Tribute to Orlando Fals Borda's Legacy to Participatory Research

40 years ago, Colombian sociologist Orlando Fals Borda introduced the world to Participatory Action Research (PAR).

On June 10, 2017 a tribute ceremony was held in Saucio, Choconta, near Bogota, Columbia, where Prof Orlando started his first direct field engagement and helped develop a community association & school in 1958. The Mayor of Choconta, citizens, and leaders of the school prepared the programme, including dialogues with community members, folkloric presentations and a field visit. Dr Rajesh Tandon, President, PRIA participated in this event, during which he spoke on Orlando’s legacy to Participatory Research, his connections with PRIA, and contribution to the field of PAR. 

We acknowledge with respect Orlando Fals Borda’s influence on PRIA’s approach of knowledge for social transformation, and the use of alternative research and knowledge methodologies aimed at strengthening individuals, groups and organisations.

Strengthened by Borda’s vision, we continue to promote bottom-up, Southern perspectives to promote the ideals of an egalitarian, free, just society.