Aid Effectiveness in the Lao PDR
The Round Table Process Overview
The Round Table Process and its associated Round Table Mechanisms - Round Table Meetings, Round Table Implementation Meetings and Sector Working Groups - is the primary platform for aid effectiveness in the Lao PDR. It is led by the Government of the Lao PDR and co-chaired by the UNDP. The RTP brings together the Government with donor agencies and countries (Development Partners) to discuss strategic development directions.
It promotes collaboration, cooperation and understanding by both Government and Development Partners as they work together to make Official Development Assistance (ODA) as effective, efficient and inclusive as possible. In essence, it tries to make every aid dollar count.
The RTP provides the platform for Aid Effectiveness Framework in the Lao PDR, including the Vientiane Declaration and the National Socio Economic Development Plan.
Through the RTP, Government and Development Partners meet to share knowledge and ideas, and bring common understanding of, and collaboration on, national priorities, including the key strategic National Socio Economic Development Plan.
History
Since 1983 the Lao PDR has been participating in the Round Table Process, with the support from the United Nations Development Programme.
From 1983 until 1997, the process was focused on the Round Table Meetings which were held once every three years in Geneva. In 1999, following a global review of the process, the Government of Lao PDR, UNDP and the international organisations agreed to turn the RTM into a continuing dynamic process held in-country, rather than just a one-off meeting every three years. Since then, the Government of the Lao PDR has taken the lead in working with stkaheolders to set the Development agenda in the Lao PDR.
The role of DIC
The Department of International Cooperation (DIC) - part of the Ministry for Planning and Investment works with Partners in Development to ensure aid effectiveness.
DIC is responsible for working with Partners in Development to ensure aid effectiveness and the implementation of the Round Table Process and the Country Action Plan, which supports the 2006 Vientiane Declaration on Aid Effectiveness.
DIC works in the spirit of mutual respect, support, accountability, harmony and cooperation towards a stronger future for Laos.
ODA Decree 75/PM
The Official Development Assistance Decree (ODA Decree) no. 75/PM defines the roles and responsibilities of the Government, the Ministries and Local Administration Authorities. It aims to simplify administration process and clarify responsibilities and accountabilities of Government agencies.
In accordance with this Decree, the Department of International Cooperation, through the Ministry of Planning and Investment, is charged with the responsibility for the Round Table Process.
Official Development Assistance Decree (ODA) 75/PM - English
Official Development Assistance Decree (ODA) 75/PM - Lao