We have acted for many governments carrying out projects financed by international agencies. There are many causes of problems, some of them arising out of local political events (we have been there during wars, military rebellions, terrorism, kidnappings, shortages of supplies or funds).
There is plenty of room for misunderstandings over taxes, customs clearance, immigration, interference or inaction on the part of other public bodies. All these have to be met and overcome.

 

Unfortunately there are also often problems with the management of the projects by external consultants – difficult places sometimes make it difficult to do a good job.

 

The designs are often inadequate and sometimes the consultants cannot provide the services they promise. And finally, contractors often encounter problems they had not priced for or anticipated, so they look to the government to bail them out. Dealing with these cases requires special sensitivity for the way governments work, understanding of bureaucratic processes and of course, ultimately, expertise in law, negotiation and advocacy.

 

It’s a long learning curve and, unlike many, we have persisted with it.