From a macro perspective, the lessons learned study found reinforcement of the case for new approaches, such as PPPs, to the provision of basic services for the urban poor:
1. At present the basic service needs of the urban poor are not being addressed by conventional approaches
2. Local governments lack adequate resources
3. At local level, more innovative approaches need to be adopted
4. Pro-poor PPPs can mobilize resources and innovation from multiple stakeholders to address the needs of the urban poor
The generic lessons identified during the study include both positive and negative experiences in advancing and realizing pro-poor PPPs. These experiences provide important lessons for shaping pro-poor PPPs going forward. The lessons are clustered into the following themes:
1. Pro-Poor Dimensions and Outcomes
Are pro-poor PPPs in basic service areas relevant and do they have beneficial outcomes for the urban poor?
2. Conceptualization of 'Pro-Poor PPPs'
Is it clear what a pro-poor PPP is, and how it can be operationalised in practice?
Do existing country and local conditions impact on the progress of pro-poor PPPs?
How is the private defined? Was the private sector involved and how?
5. Sustainability and Replication
How can pro-poor PPPs be continued without external support and be copied elsewhere?
6. Capacity Building and Awareness-Raising
Is capacity for establishing pro-poor PPPs being increased and can this help the urban poor?
What particular technical issues are there regarding setting up PPPs in general and in specific basic service sectors?
What can be learned regarding the process of setting up pro-poor PPPs?
Are there lessons regarding institutional arrangements to facilitate pro-poor PPPs?
10. Policy and Legal Framework
What enabling and constraining factors emerge from the wider policy and legal context?
11. Governance and Accountability
Can pro-poor PPPs be transparent and accountable to stakeholders and the urban poor?
Below, the main generic lessons concerning each of these eleven areas are summarized. It is emphasized that these are generic lessons that were identified from the underlying studies of the individual national programmes and IPGs.