In many political systems, parties do not primarily compete based on clear and credible policy platforms. Instead, they often appeal to voters through the personal qualities of leaders, clientelism, or by activating identity-based social cleavages. These forms of non-programmatic competition are frequently associated with political violence, governmental fragility, and weaker public service provision.

This report, "Understanding Support to Programmatic Political Parties," reviews and synthesizes the common approaches international partners take to support the development of programmatic political parties—those that appeal to voters based on a clear set of realistic policy positions.