the developing world. Two speakers described the commitment of their countries to self-sufficiency programmes for refugees, a commitment which continued to be implemented despite great difficulties. These delegations also felt that spontaneously-settled refugees should benefit from UNHCR assistance under the General Programmes.
56.
Two speakers stressed that UNHCR should implement its programmes of assistance in the best possible conditions and with closer consultation with the States concerned. Another underlined the need for a direct correlation between current and planned programmes and the primary objectives of UNHCR, within the framework of the limited resources available. One delegation stressed that planning of programmes in relation to existing funds must start at the earliest stage of the programming cycle. Two speakers felt that implementing agencies should be involved at a very early stage in the planning of projects.
57. The reorientation of UNHCR assistance, in particular the emphasis on greater precision and rigour in planning and implementation, was generally welcomed.
One speaker, however, stressed that this should lead to the alleviation of the heavy burden on developing countries hosting refugees, particularly in Africa; it was regrettable that such countries were not spared the effect of UNHCR's programming cuts. This delegate felt that UNHCR projects should not be brought to a premature conclusion by lowering the standards of implementation, which would increase the burden on host countries and eventually on UNHCR itself. Another delegate expressed the view that the term "operational" if applied to UNHCR could prove misleading, but accepted its meaning as defined by the Deputy High Commissioner.
58.
A number of speakers stated that attention had to be paid to the evaluation of assistance activities. Several speakers welcomed the establishment of a UNHCR Evaluation Committee under the Deputy High Commissioner. One delegation suggested that the Committee should focus on UNHCR's overall regional responsibilities rather than on specific projects. The same delegation called for greater analytical information on evaluation to be made available to the Executive Committee. Another speaker saw evaluation and technical reports as an important working tool for Governments and indicated the willingness of his Government to participate in technical missions to the field. One speaker stressed the importance of involving host countries in the evaluation of programmes.
59.
Several speakers stressed the importance of encouraging the participation of refugees in programmes which concerned them. Such programmes, one stated, should not be imposed on refugees.
60. A number of speakers stressed the importance of paying increased attention to the needs of refugee women in respect of both protection and the promotion of self-reliance for them through assistance programmes which heeded their interests and prerogatives and in which they were able to participate fully. Some of these speakers also alluded to the needs of refugee children, particularly in providing them with appropriate education and social and religious instruction. Some speakers welcomed measures already taken by UNHCR on behalf of refugee women and children. One delegate called for enhanced reporting by UNHCR on refugee women in terms of the totality of their needs.
61.
One speaker underlined the need for Governments to understand UNHCR's proposed programmes in relation to the objectives of the Office. The response to last year's Executive Committee decision in this respect had, he felt, been a useful first step. Several delegations welcomed the prospect of further consultations on this issue in January.
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