Exit Strategy for Aid Programs: Planning Exit before Entering

Abstract

As aid interventions by nature are temporary, they will eventually be withdrawn. Reasons and circumstances of withdrawals vary since withdrawals can be part of a strategic approach to long-term sustainability, a change in organizational priorities, or a political decision made at a higher level. A growing international demand for effective and sustainable outcomes of aid programs emphasizes a proper exit and exit strategy. However, a successful exit takes a well-planned strategy at early stages of aid programs and significant amounts of resources. This study reviews approaches to exit and exit strategies at a program level, and common elements of a viable exit strategy including setting an exit timeline, establishing specific criteria and indicators, identifying key actors, and building a monitoring and evaluation system. These elements need to be guided by transparency, inclusion, predictability, obligation, and flexibility.