In its review of the United Kingdom’s development programme, the OECD’s Development Assistance Committee (DAC) noted that the country plays a leading role in the international development community, engaging in key areas such climate change and the global economic crisis. Other donors see the United Kingdom’s efforts to reduce poverty as a model of good practice.

High-level political support over the last decade has helped the United Kingdom to promote its international development agenda both at home and abroad. Strong leadership from the Department for International Development (DFID), in close co-operation with other government ministries such as foreign affairs, trade and environment, contribute to the United Kingdom’s successful aid programme and ensure that its development policies support developing countries’ own plans.

The DAC encourages the United Kingdom to continue its focus on poverty reduction as it broadens its approach to development and DFID strengthens its links with other departments. This is critical in the case of support to fragile states, for example. As DFID faces budget pressures, the DAC review recommends that it keep its front-line staff who are key to delivering high-quality aid. It also notes that DFID should build the capacity of its partner country governments, allowing them to better manage their own future. Finally, the United Kingdom must continue to build support for international development by further increasing the transparency of all UK aid and communicating its impact and results to politicians and the public.