Optimising CSP Monitoring Committee operations 

CSP Monitoring Committees (MCs) are vital components of CAP implementation. The first meeting of our new Thematic Group (TG) on this topic took place last month. We brought together 44 participants from 19 EU countries from a range of organisations, including Managing Authorities, National Networks (NNs), civil society bodies as well as the European Commission.

TG members opened the meeting by brainstorming keywords depicting success factors for effective operations of the national MCs. Transparency, trust, and timing were among the priorities identified by the TG. All the TG members’ insights about this are on the event page, alongside an insightful presentation from DG AGRI.

Much can be gained from networking knowledge from different parts of the European Commission on programme management matters. DG AGRI set the scene on this with a presentation underlining core partnership principles and code of practice content that guide good practices for MCs across different EU funds. DG REGIO then briefly outlined their approach to high-level partnerships, including on MC matters. This was explained within the scenario of their capacity-building forum on best practices in partnerships (ECoPP). Both Commission presenters pointed to the benefits for all from building a ‘culture of partnership’ and taking advantage of the synergies available in the wider partnership ecosystem as a whole.

Nurturing a community of MC membership was tabled several times as a success factor for MCs. Other expert knowledge and experience shared by the TG members included addressing the importance of helping everyone understand and appreciate the technical framework within which CSPs and MCs operate. This reduces risks of confusion and builds technical capacity among non-technical MC members. Online platforms were seen as efficient for transferring MC materials, including up-to-date reference material on technical topics for MC members.

MC networking

Some NNs are already MC members, and opportunities were observed at the TG meeting for NNs to become more involved in the operation of MCs in this new programming period, for example, providing communications, capacity building and training support.

MC membership and participation was a horizontal topic throughout the meeting. Participation was acknowledged as being more complex for civil society, given finances and capacity to engage effectively.

TG members recognised the need for MC members to understand and ‘own’ the functions of the MC if they are to be effective in their roles. It was acknowledged that effective engagement also relies heavily on the availability of capacity and capacity building if an MC is to ensure that the voices of all are heard with effective activation and participation at the core of the MC’s work.

Such Committees can benefit from operating similarly to communities that have an effective relationship with the Managing Authority and are able to freely give feedback about decisions, processes and the implementation of interventions. The TG meeting agreed that having provision for physical meetings and farm excursions can be beneficial to help build relationships, strengthen connections, and increase understanding of each other's perspectives.

The importance attached to effective communication was also highlighted as being vital for getting information to the right people in the right place and with enough time to digest and form views.

Follow this key TG, its members next meet in January 2024.