To face the challenges in least developed and conflict-affected countries, our development work needs to support them through an integrated approach in four areas. First, we must get the legal, institutional and policy frameworks right and build national capacities and law enforcement mechanisms to implement them properly. Secondly, we must support action at the international level, calling on countries which are home to multinational corporations or hosting stock markets where international corporations are listed to legislate transparency provisions in their laws and regulations and to fight illicit capital flows, bribery and tax evasion. The more universal these provisions are the better. Thirdly, the voice and participation of affected communities, especially women and indigenous populations, must be boosted. Fourthly, we must deal prudently with large revenue flows, enhance transparency and public information and invest in sustainable human development to balance countries' short-term priorities with ensuring long- term development benefits.
The second area demanding more attention is the involvement and active participation of affected communities. Countries working with development partners should take measures to ensure full participation of communities, especially women, indigenous and vulnerable groups. We have learned from experience that the involvement of communities from the start is critical to preventing misunderstandings, defusing tensions and preventing conflict.