In his 2004 book “Dark Star Safari,” travel writer Paul Theroux noted the many white faces peering out of logo-encrusted white jeeps and promptly slammed the aid industry for being “unable to even replicate itself” locally after decades of ostensibly fostering sustainable development in Africa.
A decade later, with human capacity growing rapidly across Africa, Asia and Latin America, “global north” expat dominance of the commanding heights of the aid industry in general, and of the consulting business in particular, seems to be waning.
Experts from developing countries are setting themselves up as consultants in increasing numbers, and while many remain confined to their home countries professionally, working as “national consultants” for a fraction of the rates commanded by their counterparts from developed countries, a growing number are beginning to cross borders and work regionally and even internationally.
About the author
Till Bruckner
Till Bruckner is the founder of TranspariMED, an initiative that works to end evidence distortion in medicine, and manages advocacy for Transparify, an initiative promoting transparency and integrity in policy research. In his previous life, he worked in international development, occupying both field and research roles. Till is interested in the hidden power relationships that structure global politics and our everyday lives, and in finding new ways of using research and advocacy to make the world a better place. Till holds a Ph.D. in Politics from the University of Bristol, U.K.
