07 Nov 2008 | ‘Development organisations must cooperate more extensively and effectively. To start with, they have to work with each other, here in the Netherlands. Fragmentation must come to an end. They also have to work with embassies, businesses and other partners, not all of which are self-evident. There are opportunities for innovative partnerships.’
Minister for Development Cooperation Bert Koenders gave this important message to a group of over a hundred representatives of various development organisations at a meeting convened by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The purpose of the meeting was to give these groups a chance to learn more about the minister’s expectations for the next few years. The overall message was clear: ‘Modernise and become more effective through cooperation and tailor-made solutions.’
Mr Koenders sees the development organisations as important partners for implementing Dutch development policy, the funding of which is governed by the cofinancing system. The current system is scheduled to expire at the end of 2010. In May of this year Mr Koenders initiated a policy dialogue to discuss the form the new system will take. Today marked the completion of the dialogue, and the minister took this opportunity to present his views on the subject.
Effectiveness is key in the minister’s view. Organisations must become better at customising their activities, taking greater account of each country’s requirements and opportunities. Mr Koenders is also considering introducing a certain degree of flexibility to the financing system, which would put a premium on good cooperation.
On the basis of these and other criteria the minister anticipates supporting a smaller number of organisations in future. ‘A smaller system, but better run,’ is Koenders’ philosophy. ‘The size of the amount that is allocated to the non-governmental sector will depend in part on the quality of the proposed programmes.’ In the next few months Mr Koenders will elaborate on his plans in a policy memorandum.
