This is the summary report on national consultations in Brazil, Colombia and Mexico that were designed to create ongoing dialogue and working relationships between national governments, civil society organizations (CSOs) and bi- and multi-lateral lending and development institutions (specifically the Inter-American Development Bank -- IDB) to design and implement social development programs. The national consultations also explored ways of involving the private for-profit sector.
The national consultations in Mexico, Colombia and Brazil resulted in new, more formalized dialogue between the IDB, governments and civil society organizations in the region. Outside actors need to continue to support the deepening of the consultation processes in the initial three countries as a means of ensuring that the gains made become progressively institutionalized. Outside attention and support is especially needed in Mexico, where historic tensions between CSOs and the federal and state governments have proved difficult to overcome.
Synergos worked with Fundación Para la Educación Superior (FES) in Colombia; Philos A.C. in Mexico; and the Instituto de Açao Cultural in Brazil to help conduct these consultations. Financial support for the work was provided by the IDB, the Ford Foundation, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and the Inter American Foundation.