A Message from the Director
Urban Institute Teams Fan Out in 2009
Delivering public services tests the legitimacy and effectiveness of any government -- whether basic safety and security; property protection and contract enforcement; or water supply, schools, and health care. And the outcomes of government service delivery often determine whether development objectives are realized. The Urban Institute’s research and on-the-ground work with colleagues around the globe in 2009 translate this belief into action.
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| A citizen speaks at a UI-supported public budget meeting in Khanewal District, Pakistan. |
In Pakistan our team is gathering information on citizen perceptions of how well government at all levels is delivering services in the post-Musharraf era. This information is contributing to redrawing the scope of local government functions. Our teams are also providing technical support for municipal budgeting and management of water and other services. The team in
Pakistan is helping local leaders in 60 locations deliver better services now and create a framework for steadily improving results.
In Georgia, Serbia, and Kyrgyzstan, UI teams continue to work on local economic development. In Georgia, we are providing support to the municipalities hardest hit by the mid-2008 conflict with Russia. UI local coordinators are plying skills honed in years of helping municipal leaders prioritize and plan the tasks and mobilize the resources needed to re-build infrastructure, services, and community. In Kyrgyzstan, we are helping several municipalities improve access to land and finance services important to employers. Examples include an auction to make land available for development and dramatically improved street lighting in a major tourist hub. In all, UI has shown key players that local economic initiatives will enhance the country’s development strategy.
In Cambodia, a government decentralization strategy is emerging from UI work with several ministries. A core thrust is widening the base of local experts and policymakers who understand the policy options and tradeoffs.
Encouraged by concrete results around the world, we keep applying evidence-based analytic tools to development problems. Evaluating the impact of Millennium Challenge Corporation programs, establishing analytic and reform strategies for decentralization in Cambodia, and assessing lending program impacts exemplify UI’s approach.
The change of administrations in the US affords the chance for USAID, one of the Urban Institute’s main supporters, to reconsider the nation’s assistance strategies.
Our experts look forward to bringing their practical experience and analytic power to that task and further working partnerships with USAID and other donors promoting development in poor and post-conflict societies.
Chas Cadwell
January 2009
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