NZAID relationship framework example
In 2000, New Zealand NGOs in the international development sector and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) finalised a framework to guide their ongoing relationship.
This framework was revised with the formation of NZAID in July 2002. NZAID is a semi-autonomous body within MFAT and is the government agency responsible for delivering New Zealand's official development assistance.
Strategic policy framework
This collaborative agreement aims to formalise the good-practice elements of the relationship.
The document is reviewed annually and consists of agreed principles and associated undertakings.
- A set of relationship principles, noting that the pursuit of common goals is a key ingredient of a mutually beneficial relationship. Principles include:
- mutual respect
- recognition of NGO independence (including their right to act as advocates irrespective of funding relationships)
- recognition of respective accountabilities
- commitment to open and transparent dialogue
- commitment to processes and mechanisms which are transparent, accessible, and accountable
- commitment to continuous learning.
- A set of shared development principles, including a commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi, as core to development processes at home and abroad.
- A series of undertakings by NZAID and the NGO community to apply the above principles in funding practices, dialogue and consultation, governance, and strengthening NGO links internationally.
- Joint undertakings to develop more detailed guidelines for funding and policy dialogue, which are added as appendices to the framework as they are agreed. A joint NZAID/NGO working group continues to address the implications of the Treaty of Waitangi.
