Session 7: Intensified action on seven behaviours by all development partners Update, emerging themes and next steps

Recap: why this work was started

• Renewed interest to accelerate progress in the health sector in putting aid/development effectiveness principles into practice. Most critical areas for progress have become known as the

seven behaviours.

Not new but important.

• Commitment to action is longstanding. Where progress limited, more serious reflection on why change not happening 1) at country level 2) in agency HQs – the 'twin-track' approach • By end 2013 – rapid diagnostic exercises undertaken in 3 countries, facilitated by IHP+ – a few agency 'self diagnoses'; more focus on collective action in one area information and accountability platforms

January IHP+ Steering Committee conclusions

• Continue twin-track approach – country and agency HQs. Involve as planned 2 more interested countries. For agency HQs, continue with 'self diagnosis' on all 7 behaviours as well as the single issue approach • Focus on problems where change is feasible; on problems that can be solved locally if possible; on actions that will have traction over time • Involve HQ staff 'as appropriate' when country findings require HQ action, rather than establish any more organised arrangements for HQ follow up

What has been achieved: key findings from rapid reviews in 4 countries

• • • • The reviews have helped focus attention locally on well-known but still important aid effectiveness issues and principles Four priorities common to all reviews: – being on budget; financial management; information and accountability platforms; technical assistance – Reinforces current IHP+ work priorities at global level Where is little/no progress, reasons are both local and agency HQ specific Rapid reviews in countries have catalysed selected local action. Country reviews less successful in influencing agency HQ action

Next steps, for Steering Committee to consider

•

Follow up in countries, and in agency HQs

– Purpose: to help recognise and remove obstacles to progress, with a focus on agency HQ obstacles, and to document action taken and results – In country: build on analysis during the missions; periodic phone follow-up; if needed, deeper analysis of obstacles to change – Agency HQs: follow up with agencies where are findings with implications for agency rules and procedures •

Follow up at global level in specific areas

– One information and accountability platform – already discussed in session 3 – Financial Management Working Group – discussed in session 4 – Technical assistance: consultation planned for autumn 2014