The concepts/mechanisms/tools for developing a Joint Programme: Critical issues and UNDG Joint Programme Guidance and formats

i.Linking to MDGs, national priorities, and UNDAF It is important : Development interventions occur in a specific context How the proposed Joint Programme links to : - MDG agenda - National priorities - UNDAF Make the linkages but make sure to explain the assumptions underlining the linkages

ii. Partnerships How does the programme complements other government or development partners’ initiatives? Is there an added value from the UN system? With whom do we plan to work with? -National counterparts incl. government, local authorities, media, civil society organizations, and private sector Is there a possibility for co-financing ?

iii. Problem Identification, analysis and design of strategies: explicit causal links What are the key problems that we intend to address? Are there any relevant evidence facts, studies and statistics? What are the causes and roots of these problems? Is there a gender dimension to them? What strategies are to be developed? Is the UN the best place to assist? Is there a logic sequence causal effect between the activities – outputs and the expected direct impact of the JP?

iv. Targeting Are we going to make a difference in improving the living conditions of people? - National focus vs. geographic concentration, or a combination of both? - Vulnerable populations - Direct and indirect beneficiaries

v. Expected results: Narrative and Results Framework What do we what to achieve? What is/are strategy/ies that need to be put in place to achieve the expected results? How will we implement these strategies? With whom? Where? For how long? Are the activities and outputs pertinent to the outcomes, i.e. if successfully implemented, will the activities lead to the stated outputs, and will these outputs lead to the stated outcomes?

Con’t Are the programme’s activities, projects and outcomes realistic given the time frame, budget, human resources and national context? Does the programme clearly identify potential risks? Are strategies in place to mitigate the potential impact of identified risks? Are the cooperation instruments proposed (including technical assistance, financing modality, and budget support) appropriate to achieve the expected outcomes and outputs?

vi. Joint Programme Mgt. Arrangements  The joint programme is: An inter-agency An inter-governmental  The management team resides in-country  Governance bodies: National Steering Committee Programme Management Committee Coordination/implementation unit Joint Programme Coordinator

Con’t – The JP coordination/implementation unit is housed in the government premises. If this is not feasible, a justification must be provided. Another option is to have a sort of MDG ‘house’ – The JP counts with a high number of local expertise to ensure the transfer of knowledge – The JP counts with core staff and technical assistance

Joint communication Joint monitoring and evaluation