Publications, ICT, Stakeholders, Global: “Frequently asked questions about multi-stakeholder partnerships in ICTs for development – a guide for national ICT policy animators” is the title of the new Association for Progressive Commmunications document which introduces the concept of multi-stakeholder partnerships and processes to those new to the idea.

Recent years have seen significant interest in the development of multi-stakeholder partnerships and multi-stakeholder processes that aim to address various developmental challenges. Despite this growth in interest, partnerships between the public sector, the private sector and particularly civil society in promoting ICT policy are still relatively new and not always fully understood.

In response to the growing demand for information on multi-stakeholder processes in ICT policy, this guide seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge and experience on the subject. Drawing on the practical experiences encountered during the three-year CATIA (Catalysing Access to ICTs in Africa) programme on ICT policy advocacy, the publication presents guidelines that may assist national ICT policy facilitators in coming to grips with the complexities of multi-stakeholder relationships and the attainment of common goals and objectives. It also considers practical issues for the establishment of a multi-stakeholder process for ICT policy and looks at how multi-stakeholder partnerships work, what has been successful and what has not, and offers some practical suggestions on how to make them more effective.

Full versions may be downloaded in English or French:

• http://rights.apc.org/documents/catia_ms_guide_EN.pdf
• http://rights.apc.org/documents/catia_ms_guide_FR.pdf