Establishing the MAC (2/4)

2. Select the best option with all stakeholders

Based on the review, several options will become apparent.
It is important that all options are considered and discussed with the national government and non-government partners to reach agreement. The Multisectoral Advisory Committee will be most effective when there is full consensus among stakeholders on its positioning, composition and mandate.

Depending on country context, the review may identify the following scenarios:

• A multisectoral committee already exists and can efficiently take on the MAC role (scenario 1).
• A multisectoral committee already exists but does not have the capacities to efficiently take on the MAC role. In such cases, a new committee or sub-working group may be created that formally links to the existing structure. Linkages need to be spelt out (scenario 2).
• A multisectoral coordination structure does not yet exist in country, or is not fully functional. In such cases, a MAC will need to be formed with clear links to decision makers (scenario 3).

The core principles of the MAC and the following factors should be considered when choosing the best option for the MAC:

• Functionality: Is the proposed option currently functioning appropriately, with regular, well-attended meetings, visible outputs and noticeable linkages to high-level coordination structures which are being leveraged when needed?
• Efficiency: Does the proposed option operate in an efficient way? Does it have the ability to convene the right people and to produce high-quality outputs in a relatively short time frame?
• Representativeness: Does the proposed option allow for full representation of all sectors involved in the Multisectoral Nutrition Plan of Action, and is there active participation of all these representatives?
• Authority: Does the proposed option have the authority to convene and are the opinions and recommendations of the committee listened to and acted upon by high-level authorities?