Welcome to Connect 2013 our annual publication exploring SNV’s work around the world. As we look back over the last year, there is very encouraging news about poverty reduction globally. The number of people living in extreme poverty (under $1.25 a day) has fallen from more than 40% of the developing world population some 20 years ago to just over 20% today. But the development community shouldn’t pat itself on the back just yet. Higher economic growth in developing countries, especially in the emerging markets, has been the driving force behind this success. And despite these impressive numbers, extreme poverty remains a harsh reality for some 1.3 billion people. Meanwhile, despite the challenges in front of us, austerity in many countries has brought development spending into the spotlight as governments seek to balance budgets and bolster economies – all too often on the backs of the world’s poor. In this context of scrutiny, more than ever it has become imperative that development works, that the impact of our interventions should be clear and the outcomes measurable. That we are critical about our work. That we take a smart approach. While growth may be a key factor in poverty reduction, it’s important to remember that inclusive growth takes good policy. So while we should strive to create growth where poverty persists – from fragile states to fast-developing but inequitable middle-income countries – we should also work to ensure growth works for the poor. It’s a fundamental shift in development thinking – from a donor driven, supply-side approach to a demand-driven approach, where successful development operates at the nexus of aid and trade, driven by local needs and aspirations. Of course, this is easier said than done. It requires both an in-depth understanding of local contexts and an eye for global opportunities, the ability to make connections that count and the willingness to address the systems that keep inequality in place. Above all it requires humility and a willingness to listen. The ability to put the beneficiaries of development assistance in the driver’s Seat and to let them lead us in a shared effort to create development that is truly locally owned and sustainable. With over 11 million people benefiting from SNV-supported initiatives over the last year, we know that SNV’s approach to development is one that works. The challenge before us now is to ensure that we are able to scale up this success to reach and connect with even more people in need in the years ahead! Arthur Arnold Chairman, SNV Supervisory Board Pagina 1
Pagina 3Interactieve digi-relatiemagazine, deze editie of uitgave is levensecht online geplaatst met Online Touch en bied het online bladerbaar uitgeven van e-verenigingsbladen.
SNV Connect 2013 Lees publicatie 100Home