African Union CHAPTER 2 2. GUIDELINES FOR COMPLETING THE QUESTIONNAIRE 2.1. About the Questionnaire The Questionnaire is divided into four major sections corresponding to the four focus areas in the “Objectives, Standards, Criteria and Indicators for the APRM” document a) b) c) d) Democracy and Good Political Governance Economic Governance and Management Corporate Governance Socio-economic Development In each focus area, the overall objective of the section is defined, followed by the components in terms of which country action with regard to the overall goal will be assessed: Objectives. The objectives define the essential elements of the overall goal that must be achieved in a measurable way. Standards and Codes. The Standards and Codes are those that have been approved by African countries, individually or collectively, with regard to „how‟ they govern themselves and manage their societies, economies and socio-economic development. Questions. The questions serve to focus on what the country has done with regard to the objectives and the codes, how it does it and with what results. Indicators. The indicators are the type of evidence that is expected in the responses of countries. The indicators serve to highlight aspects of the objective, standard or code that are generally recognised as measures of performance and results. 2.2. Procedure for Completing the Questionnaire According to the Guidelines to prepare for and to participate in the APRM, following accession to the APRM, countries are required to designate a Focal Point; to establish a National Governing Council comprised of all key stakeholders; and to allocate a budget for the APRM process. Only once this has been done will the country review process for the country be launched. At this time the Country Self Assessment Questionnaire is sent to the country. As technical soundness is a key underpinning principle of the APRM, the NGC should appoint national research institutions to assist with the execution of the questionnaire. It is preferred that at least one institution be appointed for each thematic area. National institutions are recommended so as to build capacity and promote national ownership. In completing the questionnaire, it is prudent for each TRI to divide the same into two broad parts: a) Matters requiring desk research and for which field research is not required b) Issues for survey 3