Approach - How we work

Instead of operating from within a large bureaucratic structure, COMplus builds on the strengths of each partner organisation. A business plan is drawn up by the Steering Committee identifying the added value that each partner – or focal point - can bring to a project.

A two-staff Secretariat coordinates the different actions. However the implementation responsibility remains with the designated focal point(s).

This flexible and agile implementation mechanism also provides a transparent way of establishing accountabilities.

The activities conducted under COMplus denomination include:

• Umbrella actions
  These are convergent activities by all or the majority of the partners. Such umbrella actions have included the UN's Commission on Sustainable Development in April 2004 in New York, the IUCN's Congress in Bangkok in November 2004 and activities around COP15 in Copenhagen in December 2009.  
  
  
• Permanent business lines
  Each organisation works as a focal point for COMplus activities that are part of the defined business lines. The alliance takes into account the competitive strength of each organisation when deciding roles and responsibilities. Some activities can be implemented jointly by two or more partners.
  
  
  • COMplus provides additional resources to support the focal point in completing a project, particularly if those resources are not part of an already existing working plan. The focal point is responsible for delivering the expected product/service and reports to the COMplus Secretariat and Steering Committee, both in terms of progress and financial reports.  
    
    
  • The implementing focal point presents an implementation plan to be reviewed collaboratively by the Steering Committee and the Secretariat of the Alliance.  
    
    
  • The Secretariat coordinates implementation of the different actions in a way that preserves, complements and enhances impact by engaging other members of the Alliance and other institutions/organisations.
    
    
  • COMplus is not a legal partnership, and no COMplus alliance member may represent or act on behalf of another COMplus alliance member.