What really drives people-first public-private partnerships adoption? Evidence from resource-constrained settings

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing the adoption of People-First Evaluation Methodology (PFEM) in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) operating within resource-constrained contexts. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling applied to survey data, the findings show that contracting authority support and staff awareness are a strong drivers of adoption, which in turnimproves PPP success in development phases. Compliance mechanisms and regulatory involvement facilitate adoption, although regulatory frameworks have a limited moderating effect. Internal organizational capabilities and stakeholder awareness emerge as stronger predictors of sustainability outcomes. The study argues for prioritizing people-first principles, fostering supportive organizational cultures, and investing in staff training to strengthen UNSDG-aligned PPPs in resource-constrained contexts.