Aim and Scope

Aim:
The Journal of Community Development Diversity (JCDD) aims to be a premier interdisciplinary platform for the dissemination of rigorous research, critical analysis, and evidence-based practices that advance the theory and application of community development in diverse contexts. The journal is dedicated to exploring how communities worldwide can foster empowerment, resilience, equity, and sustainability while honoring and integrating the richness of human diversity. We seek to bridge the gap between academic inquiry, policy formulation, and grassroots action to support the creation of just, inclusive, and thriving societies.

Scope:
JCDD publishes original research articles, review papers, case studies, policy analyses, and community practice notes that engage with the multifaceted dimensions of community development. The journal's scope is intentionally broad and interdisciplinary, welcoming contributions from fields such as sociology, public policy, social work, urban and rural planning, environmental studies, economics, health sciences, education, and anthropology.

Core thematic areas include, but are not limited to:

  1. Community Empowerment and Capacity Building: Studies on participatory approaches, leadership development, asset-based community development, grassroots organizing, and strategies that enhance the agency and self-determination of communities.

  2. Sustainable and Resilient Community Practices: Research on local initiatives and models that promote long-term ecological, economic, and social sustainability, as well as community strategies for adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and building resilience to various shocks and stresses.

  3. Diversity and Inclusion in Community Development: Critical examinations of how race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and culture intersect with community processes. We welcome work on inclusive participation, intercultural dialogue, and development practices that effectively engage and benefit diverse populations.

  4. Social Equity and Justice: Analyses of structural inequalities, power dynamics, and systemic barriers within communities. Contributions may focus on advocacy, transformative justice, anti-oppressive practices, and community-led initiatives aimed at achieving fair access to resources, rights, and opportunities.

  5. Community Health and Well-being: Research exploring the social determinants of health, community-based health promotion, mental health initiatives, social care systems, and holistic approaches to well-being that are culturally sensitive and community-owned.

  6. Economic and Social Development: Investigations into community economies, social entrepreneurship, cooperative models, local economic development strategies, poverty alleviation, and the social infrastructure that underpirds vibrant communities.

  7. Environmental Sustainability and Climate Resilience: Work focused on community-led environmental stewardship, climate adaptation and mitigation practices at the local level, just transitions, food sovereignty, and the nexus between environmental health and community development.

JCDD encourages submissions that employ diverse methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, mixed-methods, participatory action research) and that highlight voices from the Global South, marginalized communities, and practitioner-researcher collaborations. The journal is committed to publishing work that is not only academically sound but also offers practical insights and positive impacts for communities, policymakers, and development practitioners.