This study, commissioned by the German development agency GTZ for Accra, reviewed mutual accountability mechanisms in 19 countries, with a special focus on Rwanda, Mozambique and Vietnam. While on first sight, progress is limited, it concludes that more pieces of the puzzle are in place than is generally assumed. It notes that the key elements are: (i) a shared agenda, with clearly specified goals and mutual commitments; (ii) a process for monitoring and reviewing progress; and (iii) a process of debate, dialogue and negotiation. It notes that, other than the 'soft' reputational or relational incentives, there is still little enforceability, particularly in respect of donor behaviour. Involvement of domestic stakeholders in accountability processes is still relatively weak. The study suggests that critical success factors for mutual accountability include confidence and trust, coherence, capacity, information and credible incentives.

This Briefing Paper prepared by the NGO Trocaire contains a useful summary of lessons learned and guidance on how to strengthen civil society participation in development policy making. Summarising Trocaire's experience in two countries - Honduras and Rwanda - it provides practical advice in areas such as building cross-organisational advocacy teams, producing and disseminating effective research reports; focusing on content rather than process; and balancing an 'insider' and 'outsider' approach. The Paper is pitched at northern and southern CSOs.