Poverty reduction strategies: a part for the poor?

The paper highlights the lessons learnt from previous participatory policy projects that the author considers need to be heeded if the PSRP approach is to live up to its ambitious rhetoric. Important lessons include

• Encouraging ownership of the process on behalf of countries at an international level and on behalf of civil society at a national level
• Promoting two-way information flow.Upward flows are needed to help policy-makers understand better the realities and perspectives of those living in poverty. Downward flows are needed to inform people of their rights and let them know what policies are being enacted on their behalf
• Being involved: the process of participation can be as important as the information it generates
• Enhancing accountability: participatory approaches can be used to make governments and service providers more accountable

Common problems of participatory initiatives are:

• Unrealistic or unstated expectations - which can create frustration and cynicism among participants
• Insufficient time allowed for proper participation or consultation
• Inadequate dissemination of information, or providing it in an inaccessible style or language
• Representation - lack of transparency over the criteria for selecting participants, and failure to represent the poorest, most marginalised groups
• Lack of follow-up and feedback - and failure to follow the process through to its conclusion.

The author stresses the importance of monitoring the quality of participation and being realistic about PRSPs and what they can offer the poor.