Critical assessment of ARA’s co-creation spaces in advancing collaborative climate adaptation solutions

Summary

This report provides a critical assessment of the Adaptation Research Alliance’s co‑creation spaces as a mechanism for advancing collaborative climate adaptation solutions.

The review covers four co‑creation spaces that focus on Least Developed Countries and National Adaptation Plans, Smallholder Agriculture, Urban Resilience, and Nature‑Based Solutions. It draws on a systematic review of proposals, terms of reference, workshop materials, and project deliverables.

The findings show that ARA’s co‑creation spaces have strengthened inclusive participation, promoted Global South leadership, and supported demand‑driven research. The report also identifies ongoing challenges related to impact measurement, sustainability of outcomes, and power dynamics within partnerships. It concludes with practical recommendations to strengthen equity, learning, transparency, and long‑term impact in co‑creation processes.