Carolina Holland-Szyp is a Social Scientist and Researcher in Development Studies at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS). Her research expertise encompasses social protection, children and youth, marginalised people, livelihoods and employment, and social dynamics and social change, with a particular focus on gender equality and social inclusion. Carolina’s research spans protracted crises settings, including of conflict, fragility, violence, and climate-related challenges. She has experience examining social navigation and agency among marginalised groups, with particular attention to wellbeing, dignity and aspirations.
Her work is characterised by the use of participatory and qualitative methodologies, including narrative and visual methods, that centre the voices and experiences of those most affected by the issues under study. This approach aims to contribute to academic knowledge generation and also provide actionable insights for policy and practice, particularly in contexts marked by violence and climate-related challenges. Her methodological expertise also includes analysing existing knowledge through conducting literature reviews, documentary analysis and evidence synthesis.
Since joining IDS, Carolina has contributed to several research projects examining critical issues affecting marginalised people, in particular youth and children. Her work has included a focus on addressing youth participation in violent activities, exploring how marginalised people (including young women with disabilities and young single mothers) navigate access to social assistance during protracted crises, investigating children’s involvement in harmful work, and understanding youth engagement with rural economies. She has also conducted research on the impacts of social protection interventions on youth employment outcomes.
Her geographical expertise spans Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, with specific research experience in Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Africa and Honduras.
At IDS, she is also involved in MA teaching activities. Prior to her role at IDS, Carolina gained valuable experience across both academic and private sector environments, developing a comprehensive skill set that includes stakeholder engagement, operational management, and critical analysis.
