1. Strategic Communications Plan Joint Office July 2006 2nd draft United Nations Development Group

2. Outline

4. Situation analysis General • First Joint Office in Cape Verde was launched in January 2006 after a year of intensive preparation. • Cape Verde JO pioneered new ways of doing business – these processes took time to develop • New models of JO are now emerging with the impetus coming from the governments and RC / country teams • Donors are very supportive of the initiative and are pushing for an accelerated process • Agencies want flexibility in deciding on which model of Joint Office to apply

5. Situation analysis Donor Questions • why is the process of developing 20 JOs so slow ? • will non-ExCom agencies be involved ? Government Questions • what are the different models of joint office ? • why is our country being considered ? • will the total staffing table be reduced as a result of a JO ? • will the UN budget be cut ? Agency Concerns • that agency identity will be diminished or lost • that staff in potential JOs may lose their jobs in a re-profiling exercise

7. Communications Objectives • Staff interest in JO stimulated • Positive image created of the JO initiative • Increased levels of staff knowledge regarding objectives and process of JO development

9. Key issues and strategy

10. External communications - considerations • Improve understanding of external partners’ expectations and concerns • Manage expectations • Communicate often, keep messages simple and consistent • Test ideas and messages with a focus group first • Use multiple channels, and personal communications when possible • Use well targeted communications • Make sure messages going out from different levels are consistent (i.e. ensure that internal communications do not contradict external messages) • Actively seek feedback and act upon it

12. Target Audiences and Objectives - External

14. Communications Objectives The UN system needs to change fast to maintain its relevance in the new aid environment Higher level messages The UN must reduce duplication and overlap to improve its effectiveness and efficiency A joint office allows agencies to work together more closely, operationally&programmatically, increasing efficiency & effectiveness Mid-level message The Joint Office initiative is a major demonstration that the UN is serious about reform A Joint Office produces tangible benefits for the partner government Subsidiary message A Joint Office reduces the collective admin cost incurred by agencies and enhances common programming A Joint Office reduces transaction costs and admin load for partner governments The Joint Office initiative has produced significant positive externalities that benefit UN reform in general