Why Trust is the Currency of Change

Rakesh Rajani gave a talk at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

Why is trust (not money, data, argument, evidence, credentials) the currency of change? Rakesh Rajani shares candid reflections on the complexities of driving systemic change in government and development. Drawing on 25 years of experience in civil society and philanthropy, Rajani recounts personal stories of success and unexpected failure in Tanzania and beyond. He counters common assumptions about transparency, accountability, and state capability, arguing that well-intended efforts can often undermine the systems they aim to improve.

Rajani discusses key findings from research on state capability initiatives, highlighting the importance of understanding political contexts, focusing on implementation over policy design, and reimagining accountability as a collaborative rather than adversarial process. He emphasizes the need for deep work and the ability to build working coalitions across differences. This thought-provoking talk provides valuable insights for policymakers, activists, and development professionals hoping to effect meaningful change in complex political systems.

Watch the full event.