UK aid in a changing world: implications for ICAI

7 Jan 2016

In a new briefing paper, ‘UK aid in a changing world: implications for ICAI’, we examine global trends in international development, and the potential challenges for UK aid. We then reflect on how this analysis has helped us shape a strategic and relevant review programme.

The global development landscape is changing fast. In 2015, a series of major international events began reshaping the policy agenda for the years to come. Alongside commitments on climate change and development finance, the Global Goals have been adopted, providing a new, universal charter for development. In the UK, the government has set out a global strategy for the UK aid programme, while the Department for International Development (DFID) has launched a series of strategic reviews to ensure that it is ready for the challenges ahead.

Amidst this complexity, ICAI’s independent scrutiny has a key role to play in providing Parliament and the public with the assurance that UK aid is achieving genuine impact and value for money. We will pay close attention to how well DFID responds to new challenges and, as the role of other government departments in spending official development assistance grows, a more prominent scrutiny role across government.

Full report UK aid in a changing world: implications for ICAI