Delivering as One

Delivering as One

Delivering as One is a United Nations initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of UN operations at the country level. This approach seeks to improve coordination among various UN agencies, funds, and programs to better support countries in achieving their development goals.

Background

The Delivering as One initiative was launched in 2006 following the recommendations of the High-level Panel on United Nations System-wide Coherence. The panel was established to explore ways to strengthen the UN's ability to respond to the challenges of the 21st century, particularly in the areas of development, humanitarian assistance, and the environment.

Objectives

The main objectives of Delivering as One are:

• To enhance the coherence and effectiveness of UN operations at the country level.
• To reduce duplication and fragmentation of efforts among UN agencies.
• To improve the alignment of UN support with national priorities and strategies.
• To increase accountability and transparency in the use of resources.

Key Components

Delivering as One is built around five key components, often referred to as the "Five Ones":

One Leader

The Resident Coordinator acts as the leader of the UN Country Team, ensuring a unified approach to development assistance.

One Programme

A single program framework is developed to align the efforts of all UN agencies with national development priorities.

One Budgetary Framework

A unified budgetary framework is established to ensure transparency and accountability in the allocation and use of resources.

One Office

Where feasible, UN agencies are co-located to improve collaboration and reduce operational costs.

One Voice

The UN speaks with a single voice to enhance its advocacy and communication efforts.

Implementation

The Delivering as One approach was initially piloted in eight countries: Albania, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Pakistan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uruguay, and Vietnam. These pilot countries were selected to test the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach in different contexts.

Challenges and Criticisms

While Delivering as One has been praised for improving coordination and reducing duplication, it has also faced challenges, including:

• Resistance from some UN agencies to relinquish autonomy.
• Difficulties in aligning diverse mandates and operational procedures.
• The complexity of managing a unified budgetary framework.

Impact and Results

Evaluations of the Delivering as One initiative have shown positive results in terms of improved coordination, increased efficiency, and better alignment with national priorities. However, the success of the initiative varies across different countries and contexts.

Future Directions

The Delivering as One approach continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to refine and improve its implementation. The initiative is seen as a critical component of the UN's broader reform agenda, aimed at enhancing the organization's ability to support sustainable development.

See Also

• United Nations Development Programme
• Sustainable Development Goals
• United Nations System

References

• United Nations. "Delivering as One: Report of the Secretary-General." [1]
• High-level Panel on United Nations System-wide Coherence. "Delivering as One: Report of the High-level Panel." [2]