Defending Dignity A Manual for National Human Rights Institutions on Monitoring Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Part III: Assessing resources Governments are obliged to dedicate “maximum available resources” to the fulfilment of ESCR. For this reason, it is especially important to consider questions about the way in which resources are generated, allocated and spent. Chapter 9 introduces the policy areas that are relevant to consider when assessing resources, while Chapters 10, 11 and 12 explain how budget analysis approaches can be used to investigate how resources are allocated, generated and spent. Part IV: Communicating findings The most tangible “output” of any monitoring activity will generally be a report. This part of the Manual examines the factors that make a compelling report that can contribute to effective advocacy. Chapter 13 looks at how to contextualize quantitative data with qualitative analysis. Chapter 14 discusses how to organize findings and recommendations. Chapter 15 introduces data visualization as a way to present evidence. Chapter 16 looks at how reporting can support broader advocacy strategies. A number of learning tools are also featured throughout the chapters: HELPFUL TIPS In different chapters, links are provided to external resources that can be used for specific tasks. CASE STUDIES The Manual features examples that illustrate how APF members have incorporated different methods and approaches into their monitoring activities. IN PRACTICE This section asks readers to think through how they might apply in practice the methods and approaches introduced in the chapter. In particular, the sections recommend using specific project management tools, such as a problem map, research matrix, research plan and advocacy plan. EXERCISES AND QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION The exercises encourage readers to think through how they might apply in practice the skills introduced in the chapter. The questions for reflection aim to prompt critical thinking on how to integrate these skills in day-to-day scenarios. Answers to the exercises are provided at the end of the Manual. INTRODUCING AHN Ahn is an officer at a fictional NHRI who is currently undertaking a monitoring activity on maternal health. At the end of each chapter, there is a section that describes how she has applied the various tools and techniques in the Manual to her particular monitoring activity. It encourages readers to identify similar issues that they face and how they might apply different techniques in their own monitoring work. By featuring one case study throughout the Manual, the aim is to help readers see how the different phases of the monitoring process fit together, with OPERA providing an overarching framework. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF SOURCES This Manual has been inspired and informed by many other publications, papers and reports, although the ideas and perspectives have been adapted, combined and modified substantially to explore the key themes of the Manual in relation to the role and functions of NHRIs. References are listed as further reading at the end of each chapter. Where a particular source has provided core ideas for a chapter, it is acknowledged at the end of that chapter. 4