The present document is the result of a process that started in spring 2009 and aims at providing a new impetus to the RCC’s work in the coming three-year period by making use of its potential and focusing on the lines described above. This process involved an intense dialogue both within the RCC and between it and donor community.

The document consists of a general part, ("Strategy"), and the "Work Programme 2011-2013". The Strategy defines the permanent “horizontal” activities of the RCC. The Work Programme covers each of the agreed priority areas. It briefly analyses the importance and value added of their regional dimension. Based on the state-of-play of existing activities, including, where possible a mention of gaps and overlaps, the regional priorities for the period 2011-13 are identified. Within these, the RCC will focus on a limited number of targeted actions.

Two Annexes are attached: Annex I provides more details on planned actions in line with the Work Programme, including potential partners and timelines. Annex II is an overview of the existing regional initiatives and task forces by priority sector.