As one of its main guideposts, UNDP works to help develop and enhance the national capacities in the initiation, implementation and conclusion of the developmental undertakings in which it is involved as a partner. For this to work, it is essential that the host Governments assume the overall responsibility and direction for the execution of the UNDPsupported initiatives. This is reflected in the use of the UNDP National Execution (NEX) modality in an increasing number of programme countries.
In the Islamic Republic of Iran, NEX is the dominant way for implementing UNDP projects. Although the NEX logic and essence remain the same, its processes and procedures have been changed – and simplified - over the course of time. The present Guideline, which is an update to a previous version published in 2003, accounts for the latest modifications in NEX procedures. It defines and clarifies UNDP’s overall policies and procedures and provides practical steps on how to best apply national execution in the country. I suggest that all National Project Directors and others involved with UNDP-supported projects in Iran review and study the Guideline carefully. It will help us all to plan and implement projects more efficiently and effectively for the benefit of Iran and its people.