Can the poor influence policy|participatory poverty Assessments in the Developing World

This new edition of "Can the Poor Influence Policy?" reflects a dramatic shift in the policy dialogue since the first edition appeared in 1999. The dialogue has moved from a debate over why the poor should be included in policy formulation to an explanation of the ways this can be achieved. In addition International development organizations are now working together to support countries as they devise national strategies to reduce poverty. This edition includes a new chapter that draws on recent case examples from participatory poverty assessments (PPAs) to share emerging best practice of how to involve the poor in the development of these strategies.A joint foreword by James D.Wolfensohn, president of the World Bank, and Horst Kohler, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, highlights their institutions`shared commitment to poverty reduction. They conclude, "The book is essential reading for policymakers who wish to understand how to improve consultation with the poor;for governments,NGOs, and donors who wish to undertake PPAs;and for all those embarking on PRSPs [Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers]."Can the poor Influence Policy? is a clear and authoritative review of experience with the major new phenomenon of participatory poverty assessments. Caroline Robb documents the scale and depth of a quiet revolution in thinking and practice with profound implications for development professionalism and policy. The book published as it is by the World Bank and the IMF,is a landmark. After this book, things should never be the same again, for there will be less excuse than ever for ignoring the realities and priorities of those who are poor and disadvantaged. -Robert Chambers, Institute of Development Studies. If we are to meet the global target of reducing the proportion of people living in extreme poverty by 2015, we must listen to the poverty experts-the poor themselves. Can the Poor Influence Policy?unravels this unique learning experience....the only way forward. -Margaret Kakande, Ministry of Finance, Government of Uganda. This important and timely book rightly argues the voices and concerns of the poor should shape policies. The challenge will be to ensure this happens in practice. - Justin Forsyth,Oxfam International.