NNN Strategic Review
The 2024 NTD landscape is vastly different from the NTD landscape of 2009, when we first launched the network. Within the global NTD community, there are now several new disease specific, national and regional NTD networks and coalitions working on issues ranging from the coordination of programmatic implementers with health ministries and donors, advocacy and resource mobilization, to the development of new tools (drugs, diagnostics, vaccines and devices). The NNN has remained consistent in the use of its platform to create inclusive and diverse civil society representation from the global NTD community to address common challenges faced by civil society in the design, implementation and monitoring of programmatic activities of NTD programmes. Through this body of work, the NNN has established a clear community of practice guided by the BEST framework and NNN Framework of Engagement, statements of commitment and toolkits in collaboration between members, with WHO and health ministries of affected countries. The NNN is now looking at how its evolution in a changing global health and fiscal landscape will continue to support NGOs and civil society to meet the needs of affected communities.
The Why?
Eight years have passed since the drafting of the NNN’s Framework of Engagement, prompting us to reflect on the following questions:
- What is the NNN’s unique role in this vast constellation of NTD actors and networks?
- Is the purpose and structure of the annual conference serving our community’s needs?
- Is the current coalition model fit for purpose and sustainable to meet its vision and mission?
- What other global coalition/network models could NNN consider to ensure it has the resources it requires to sustainably continue to support its global membership body?
- Should we continue to be a big-tent, come-one, come-all member network?
- If not, how do we further define our membership and ensure NNN representation across its membership is diverse, inclusive, equitable, global and not duplicative of other coalitions or entities?
- How do we capitalize on the momentum generated at the NNN annual conferences in a meaningful way?
Most importantly, how are we serving the members in advancing their organizational and NTD-specific goals? If our collective intent is to help endemic countries achieve the goals of the 2030 NTD roadmap, and provide the best possible services to affected communities, are the current structure, operations, and governing mechanism of the NNN best suited to deliver on this mission?
The NNN Executive Committee is initiating a strategic review to address these questions, review the NNN governance and structure, and develop a blueprint for action that positions the NNN to support its members and national programmes in the delivery of the WHO 2030 NTD roadmap goals.
Leading the Strategic Review
The NNN Executive Committee through the NNN Steering Committee announced a call for a consultative team to lead the NNN Strategic Review in May. The committee fully realized in July and have been working towards the finalizing the Terms Of Reference (TOR) for the Strategic Review.
