What does 'capacity building' refer to in COPAR?

Capacity building in the context of Community Organizing for Health and Human Development (COPAR) primarily involves enhancing the skills, knowledge, and resources of the community itself. This process empowers individuals and groups within the community to identify their own health needs and develop sustainable strategies for improvement. By focusing on community capacities, it enables residents to take an active role in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of health initiatives, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.

This approach contrasts with merely providing financial resources or implementing government policies, as these actions do not necessarily foster long-term community engagement or capability. Furthermore, while training healthcare professionals is important, capacity building extends beyond just this group—it emphasizes the empowerment of all community members, ensuring they possess the tools necessary to address their health needs effectively. This holistic focus is what makes capacity building a fundamental component of COPAR.