Does the focus on assets mean that richer people are favoured?
No – at least this is certainly not the intention. The reason for emphasizing assets rather than needs and weaknesses is to help to ensure that poverty-reduction programmes have a firm foundation and are sustainable. It is also important to recognise that everyone has strengths, even if these are not immediately apparent. Those with fewest material assets must often apply the greatest strength to survive. SL analysis should help reveal the different strengths of different social groups within a community or target group. This should help to ensure that development activity is tailored to local circumstances.
