Social capital formation and development in marginal communities, with reference to post-Soviet societies

This paper re-assesses the relevant literature on social capital formation and its development role in marginal communities, using the case example of the Crimean Tatars. In order to review the current literature, a modified systematic review procedure has been adopted, leading to the formulation of a more thoroughly grounded conceptual framework. The concept of social capital was originally developed as a tool for explaining different developmental outcomes in societies with otherwise similar resources. By integrating various theoretical strands, a complex understanding of the various forms and levels of social capital emerges. The value of the concept of social capital is examined, and attention is paid to both its positive and negative meanings. Of particular interest for development studies is the analysis of the impact of external intervention on social capital formation. This is then tested in terms of its relevance for marginal communities, and specifically when thinking through alternative policy effects.