72048621RFI00002 Annex 2 - RFI Questions.pdf

72048621RFI00002 Annex 2 RFI Questions - Strengthening Capacity and Effectiveness of the

People’s Assemblies System in Laos Activity

Annex 2: Information Requested: “Strengthening the Capacity and Effectiveness of the People’s Assemblies System in Laos” Activity

USAID Laos is interested in receiving feedback on any of the following questions:

1. The Executives at national and local levels are accountable to both the National Assembly and the People’s Provincial Assemblies. While USAID intends to focus effort on PPAs, how might activities be linked with the National Assembly and its Members? What should be the USAID level of efforts between the NA and PPAs?

2. How can USAID most effectively work with GOL counterparts at the national and local levels to achieve PPA development gains?

3. The local administration in Laos is divided into 18 provinces. What criteria should USAID consider when deciding which provinces to prioritize for engagement? Which provinces should USAID prioritize and why?

4. What are the existing methods, formal or informal, of engagement at the local level to ensure an understanding of key stakeholders and local governing dynamics? Do some parts of the country function differently than others?

5. Following the upcoming election in 2021 in Laos, what can be done to support the development of the next generation of PPA members and to retain existing members to continue supporting effective PPAs?

6. Are there trusted local and international development actors at the local level? Do some parts of the country receive greater focus and attention? Why or why not?

7. Are there examples in which NA or PPA Members have used their authority to oversee the executive? If so, to what effect?

8. What powers (if any) have been transferred (devolved) from central authorities (National

Assembly and Central Government) to Provincial assemblies? Are these considered a priority?

9. The percentage of women Members of the NA’s is commendable and high for the region, but similar percentages have not yet materialized in the PPAs. What barriers exist for women to become PPA Members? Are women Members able to contribute to policy making once they are in office? What opportunities are available to further gender goals?

10. To what extent, the gender responsive budgeting will be perceived by the NA and PPAs in Laos?

11. What factors foster citizen access to PPA Members?

12. To what extent do non-profit associations and private sector actors currently contribute to policy design (at both national and provincial levels)? What barriers exist? Are there opportunities to expand contributions from NPAs and private sector actors?

12.1. Are there regional variations in engagement of PPAs by non-profit associations and private sector actors?

12.2. Does the private sector currently play an advisory role to PPAs without posing a conflict of interest? Are there opportunities for this to be expanded?

13. Are there examples of successful community outreach by NA or PPAs members? What made it successful?

14. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, what platforms, innovations, or technologies may contribute, or have been made available to assist NA and PPAs perform their oversight roles? How can technology support the operation of PPAs - including petition and improved citizen’s feedback mechanisms?

15. Overall, how feasible is this current Program Results Framework? Please provide feedback and suggestions for any improvement.