The PRSP approach: a basic guide for CARE International

This paper argues that the PRSP approach is only just beginning to have an impact through enhancing country ownership of nationally formulated poverty reduction processes. Additionally the authors also state that the PRSP approach has set out to tackle the need for institutional reforms as well as improving donor behaviour in the aid relationship.

The paper is built around four key areas:

• origins of the PRSP approach and ensuing pressures in the development industry
• technical basics of the approach including content and principles informing the process.
• assumptions behind PRSPs such as political dimensions, contributions to poverty reduction and basic conditions required to meet this potential
• an assessesment of key challenges and progress made to date.

The authors suggest that benefits of this approach can only be percieved in the longer term as long as governments, civil society and donors maintain the momentum, remain committed, and sustain the progress that has been made so far.[adapted from author]