David Dougherty is a Washington, D.C.-based opinion research consultant providing project management and strategic services to a wide array of political, public affairs and international organizations. David specializes in designing and implementing research and programs in difficult, often post-conflict environments to assist clients in advancing the development of robust democratic institutions and processes. Since 2001 David has been affiliated with the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) as a trainer, expatriate program manager and consultant in various countries.
He has directed dozens of qualitative and quantitative studies and worked with political party leaders, executive branch officials and civil society organizations in Afghanistan, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, Kosovo, Nepal and North Macedonia. A through line in David’s international work is exploring the views and aspirations of traditionally underrepresented groups – ethnic and religious minorities, women, youth and internally displaced persons to name a few. Additionally, he is adept in the practical application of qualitative research methods to illuminate public attitudes on wrenching societal and political issues such as the official use of languages (North Macedonia), federalism and constitutional development (Iraq), reform proposals and European Union accession (BiH), natural resources and infrastructure development (Nepal), and public corruption and the legitimacy of election processes (passim). Diverse experience and cultural sensitivity enable David to work effectively with his client organizations and their local political party and civil society partners to bring opinion research findings to bear where they matter most: on programming and ultimately on public policy. His objectivity and commitment to methodological rigor in design, data collection and analysis allow him to employ the same tools in the program evaluation process. David has taught numerous classes and workshops and provided analysis for a variety of media outlets. He holds an MA in Public Opinion Research from the University of Connecticut.
- Countries/regions worked in/for: Afghanistan, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, Kosovo, Nepal and North Macedonia.
- Languages of fluency: English (Native),
- Education: BA (political science/international relations), MA (public opinion research)