Acting upon a recommendation of the Advisory Board, the RCPAR will develop four thematic strategy papers, one for each of the Project’s thematic areas.

The thematic papers are expected to provide the strategic framework against which future RCPAR proposals can be assessed, supporting the Project to pursue its mandated objectives and outcomes. In addition, they will assist in the alignment of overall RCPAR resources to demand-driven regional priorities, within an overall strategic framework. Last, but not least, they may also provide the basis for strategic partnerships between RCPAR and other organizations and initiatives in the region.

The first strategy paper to be developed will focus on Policy-Making and Coordination, followed by Public Sector Organisation and Staffing. A first version of both papers are scheduled for completion in 2009. The strategy papers will be discussed with the relevant thematic Focal Points before they are adopted by RCPAR management. It is foreseen that the approved versions will be updated periodically, to reflect relevant changes in the region and in the Project’s priorities