Development outcomes can only be obtained if the development aid measures implemented are verifiable and geared to results. Donors and partner countries agreed on this when adopting the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness in 2005, which attested to an unprecedented level of determination and agreement to radically reform development aid. The innovations seek to take more effective action against global poverty and growing inequality worldwide and ensure more equitable growth and access to vital resources for the poorest populations.

On the Road to Accra

Donors and partner countries have pledged to carry out a package of measures to tangibly enhance ownership, alignment, harmonisation, managing for results and mutual accountability in development processes. On the initiative of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), about a hundred development ministers met with experts from international development organisations and civil society in September 2008 in the Ghanaian capital Accra for a mid-term review.

Agenda on action

This forum ascertained the present status and the progress made in implementing the Paris Declaration but also obstacles still standing in the way. The findings were compiled in a plan of action to give donor and partner countries clear guidance and a major tool for attaining the Millennium Development Goals.