Development policy and good governance
Good governance should be a specific goal of Dutch development policy. It currently functions as a benchmark for selecting countries that qualify for aid in reducing poverty, the WRR says in its report Development policy and good governance (Report no. 58, 2001).
Importance of good governance
Improving the quality of governance in developing countries is not only important because of the potentially positive economic effects (increased prosperity, reduced poverty). It is also in the interests of the rule of law, democracy and human rights. In addition, good governance elsewhere is increasingly in the Western world’s own interests.
Selection of countries
The WRR’s point of departure has consequences for the selection of countries that qualify to receive development aid. Countries where the situation in terms of the rule of law, human rights and democracy is poor, but where interesting developments are occurring in relation to democracy and the rule of law that need to be supported would also qualify for aid.
The report was published in a single volume with a number of preliminary opinions by external experts.