The UK government announced its intention to release a white paper on international development by the end of 2023 to outline its approach to international development until 2030. This announcement was accompanied by a call for evidence from UK and international stakeholders.
In response to this call for evidence, STOPAIDS, GNP+, WACI Health, Frontline AIDS, INPUD, GFAN, VSO, Tackle Africa, and Results UK collaborated to compile a comprehensive submission. Key points from this submission are as follows:
- Partnership: The evidence underscores the importance of fostering inclusive partnerships that prioritise addressing inequalities and amplifying the voices of marginalised stakeholders.
- Role of the UK: It is recommended that the UK take a focused approach to tackle inequalities, actively involve lower-middle-income country representatives in policy formulation, and advocate for their representation in international decision-making processes.
- Listening to Those in Need: To genuinely listen to marginalised voices, a shift in power dynamics is essential. This entails involving diverse lower-middle-income country representatives and providing support for their active participation in international processes.
- Big Ideas and Innovations: The submission advises the UK to offer support to initiatives like Unitaid, prioritise the strengthening of health and community systems, and harness the potential of digital technologies for advancing development goals.
- Development Cooperation: Engagement with low and middle-income stakeholders, coupled with adherence to the principles of Global Public Investment (GPI), is presented as a means to expedite progress.
- Official Development Assistance (ODA): ODA should be targeted at ending inequalities, facilitating equitable partnerships, and working toward the decriminalisation of marginalised communities.
- Non-ODA Financing: Understanding the impact of non-ODA resources and actively promoting GPI principles are identified as crucial steps.
- Stakeholder Engagement: The submission highlights the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders, including scientific experts, private finance entities, the private sector, trade partners, and diplomats, while adhering to GPI principles.
- Multilateral and Bilateral Action: The evidence emphasises the significance of effective multilateralism, increased funding for proven initiatives such as the Global Fund, and achieving a balance between bilateral and multilateral aid strategies in international development efforts.
The full evidence submission is available for download here – STOPAIDS & Partner White Paper Evidence Submission.