CIDA
Over the past few years, CIDA has developed a new approach to implementing its development program, outlined in its Social Development Priorities: A Framework for Action, Strengthening Aid Effectiveness, and Expanding Opportunities through Private Sector Development: Canada Making a Difference in the World.
Since these approaches are new, there is no significant track record. However, the implications are becoming clearer than when CIDA held public hearings on the draft document.
Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Recommendations:
- Improve donor co-ordination through CIDA retaining control over the program, but working with other donors and recipient countries to agree on who will provide what types of support.
- Do not proceed with a proposed shift toward programmatic and sector-wide approaches in which CIDA would reduce its reliance on discrete projects (over which it exercises a great deal of control) and would support beneficiary governments by providing budgetary support.
- Look for ways in which CIDA can reduce the time required for planning and improving interventions.
- Increase CIDA’s funding of infrastructure, which can contribute to economic development.
- Do not adopt the OECD-DAC agreement for Lesser Developed Countries and its definition of “aid untying.”
Adopted by The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce board of directors, May 2004