The Emancipatory Potential of Poetry in Decolonising Development Studies

This paper examines the emancipatory potential of poetry as a methodological tool within Development Studies, arguing that poetry serves as a medium for amplifying marginalised voices and challenging dominant narratives of development. By employing critical poetic inquiry, researchers can embrace arts-based methods that recognise diverse epistemologies and foster inclusivity. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the lived experiences of marginalised communities, empowering them to co-create knowledge and advocate for social justice. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from critical pedagogy, particularly the work of Paulo Freire, the paper underscores the importance of voice and dialogue with reflection as a catalyst for action and transformation. Furthermore, it explores how poetic inquiry disrupts traditional power dynamics in research, positioning marginalised individuals not merely as subjects but as active agents in the knowledge production process, while acknowledging the challenges faced in legitimising such methods within the development narrative in academia.