Poor Performing Countries: Overcoming Poverty in Unresponsive Systems (OPUS)

The Institute began work on this DFID-led project in 2003, the aim of which was to engage effectively in countries that are making little progress in reducing poverty. While there is reasonable consensus within the development community on how to engage in countries where the government is reform-oriented, there is less clarity on successful engagement strategies where the government is unable or unwilling to pursue pro-poor policies. The relatively new Policy Division in DFID established an inter-disciplinary team to examine the policy options.

The Institute's then Director of Studies, Michael Anderson, was based in the Policy Division in DFID Headquarters. This project involved the following:

  • Leading and managing the Policy Division team on OPUS;
  • leading a process of internal consultation in preparation of a workplan for the team;
  • preparing and securing approval of a workplan setting out activities that will achieve team objectives no later than 30 March 2005;
  • working with DFID country offices to develop and implement policy guidance on OPUS;
  • establishing and maintaining relationships with international development agencies including the World Bank, UN, bilateral donors and NGOs on OPUS issues; and
  • establishing and maintaining links with other government departments on related policy topics, including 'failed states'.