Which of the following reflects Paris/Accra principles for aid and cross-border cooperation?

• A. Uniform donor-led implementation without local input
• B. Alignment with local systems, country ownership, and harmonization of procedures
• C. Rigid, donor-determined policy without adaptation
• D. Focus on short-term projects regardless of local capacity

Answer: (D)

Aid effectiveness under Paris and Accra centers on country ownership, alignment with local systems, and harmonization of donor procedures. In cross-border cooperation, this means working with the partners’ own strategies and institutions, using their processes where possible, and coordinating with other donors to reduce duplication and red tape. The approach that best reflects these principles is the one that emphasizes aligning with local systems, upholding country ownership, and smoothing procedures so they fit the local context. This contrasts with options that push for uniform, donor-led implementation without input from local actors, rigid policies dictated by donors, or focusing only on short-term projects without building local capacity. Those latter choices run counter to the idea of working alongside local authorities and systems to enable sustainable, effective cooperation.