1. Introduction

Government contracts represent between 12-18% of GDP in Latin America and the Caribbean (the Region). In that context, officials in charge of public procurement play a crucial role, in planning, conducting and approving procurements.  The role of public procurement also extends to contract management, which has a direct impact on implementation and the effective and efficient provision of government services.

Despite these responsibilities, procurement is not widely recognized as a profession in the Region. Procurement is seen primarily as an administrative process, with limited focus on the required specialized set of skills and experience. Moreover, the procurement function is vulnerable to external influences, leaving officials with limited room to make professional judgements or decide on innovative approaches. As a result, few public procurement systems require procurement staff to hold recognized procurement qualifications or have structured capacity building programs.  These challenges, coupled with the high turn-over of procurement officials, foster a capacity deficit that leads to delays in project implementation.

This environment has a direct impact on projects financed by Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) which spend significant amounts of resources each year to build the capacity of procurement specialists, who frequently leave their roles earlier than anticipated.

The following joint statement reflects the collective intent of the MDBs endorsing this Statement to support the professionalization of the public procurement function in the Region as a means to increase capacity, improve procurement processing and facilitate the more efficient delivery of goods, works and services with due regard for the best value for money and the highest standards of integrity.

2. Statement

The Inter-American Development Bank, Central American Bank for Economic Integration, Caribbean Development Bank, and the World Bank (collectively “the Participants”) desire to collaborate and cooperate to support the establishment of conditions for the professionalization of the public procurement function in Latin America and the Caribbean, based on their aligned guiding procurement principles and on international best practices.

This Joint Statement provides a framework within which the Participants may develop and undertake collaborative activities, while recognizing the Participants’ independent decision-making with regards to their own respective administration and operations.

Professionalization of the procurement function, in accordance with international best practices and principles, will enable governments to leverage public procurement to respond to some of the key strategic issues facing the region, including reducing carbon emissions, responding to gender inequality, supporting the economic development of marginalized and vulnerable groups in society, and combatting corruption and environmental damage.

Additionally, the MDBs commit to continuously enhance the procurement function within their own organizations to ensure that their procurement staff are equipped with the necessary competencies, training, and support to uphold and advance procurement standards. By implementing robust capacity-building programs, promoting ongoing professional development, and adhering to international best practices, the MDBs aim to foster a culture of excellence and integrity. This internal strengthening of the procurement function is vital for effectively supporting the broader goals of professionalization in the region, thereby enhancing the overall impact of public procurement on societal and environmental outcomes.

3. Actions and activities

The MDBs endorsing this Joint Statement plan to collaborate to carry out activities, which may include: 

(a)        Preparation of a strategy and/or operational plan to support professionalization in the public sector in the Region and within their own institutions.

(b)       Identification of core topics for a curriculum on public procurement and options for the development of associated learning materials, as well as the provision of accreditation.

(c)        Development of a framework of core procurement competencies applicable to public procurement professionals.

(d)       Use and leverage of existing programs, resources and facilities to mutual advantage and benefit.

(e)        Promotion, preparation, and organization of workshops/conferences/training seminars to promote the professionalization of the procurement function in the region.

(f)        Joint engagement in dialogue with stakeholders and other parties interested in the activities being pursued under this Joint Statement to establish opportunities for collaboration.

4. Concluding Statement

The Participants collectively intend to work together to support the professionalization of public procurement in the Region and to support the necessary initiatives, programs, certifications, and institutions. Through our joint intent and concerted actions, we aim to strengthen the Region’s public procurement capacity and project implementation.

Nothing in this Joint Statement is intended to be construed as creating a joint venture, an agency relationship, a binding agreement or a legal partnership between the Participants or as a commitment of financial support for a specific country, program, or activity.

Endorsed by: IDB, CABEI, CDB, World Bank