For the 2026 edition, Breakthrough's annual convening ‘Data for Dialogue’ aims to foster dialogue on how digital strategies are being mobilized for gender norm change. The conversations will explore the questions of evidence building in the context of the digital, the diverse possibilities and limitations of digital programs while being attentive to broader ideas of digital rights and justice.

3ie Senior Evaluation Specialist Divya Pandey will be speaking at the panel discussion on ‘Digital Programs and Social Change: Promise and Pitfalls’ scheduled 2.00 pm-3.00 pm.

This session will examine the strategic value and effectiveness of digital interventions in accelerating behaviour and norms change, exploring how “change” is defined, measured and sustained in digital contexts. It will discuss practical considerations and mitigation measures for effective implementation, drawing on real-world challenges and lessons learned. The conversation will also unpack what counts as credible evidence for digital interventions, how it differs from conventional programs, and how monitoring and evaluation approaches can strengthen the quality and reliability of insights generated.

  • Divya Pandey, Senior Evaluation Specialist, 3ie
  • Sharon Marie Barnhardt, Director (Research), Centre for Social and Behaviour Change, Ashoka University
  • Tej Prakash Yadav, Executive Creative Director, BBC Media Action India
  • Susmita Mukherjee, Director, Gender and Adolescent Girls, Project Concern International (moderator)