explicitly to the time frame for economic development plans. Individual countries may have differing views on this. The key issue is to ensure that there is a time frame, so that those involved have a deadline to structure their activities and to facilitate monitoring and final evaluation. Time frames for implementation of specific activities Wherever possible, specific activities proposed in the plan should also have specific time frames. Only where such targets exist will those charged with the implementation of the plan have a clear structure to work in and a basis for monitoring the plan’s achievements. These time frames should be realistic. Where objectives are expressed in general terms (referred to elsewhere as “goals”) or are clearly long term, it may be desirable to propose interim or contributory objectives with more specific timings. One example of the use of specific time frames is the national plan of Indonesia. The plan as a whole has a five-year time frame, after which it is to be reviewed and renewed. For specific objectives relating to the ratification of international human rights instruments, the plan sets a schedule of progressive ratifications over the fiveyear life of the plan. This provides a clear target for the government agencies responsible for these steps. It also makes evaluation of progress, in this area at least, quite straightforward. The time frames should be an integral part of the plan, in other words set out in the plan document rather than being left for separate action. 8.9 Legal status An issue that has formed part of some countries’ consideration of national plans is whether or not the plan should enjoy legal status. What is or is not possible in this area will depend very much on the legal traditions and policies of the countries concerned. However, there are a number of advantages to be gained from moving in this direction, including: • Action to provide some form of legal status would tend to promote broader political support for the plan; • It would be an important symbol of the commitment of the nation to the promotion and protection of human rights; • It would encourage civil society and promote a more cooperative relationship with government; • Action by the legislature would have the substantive benefit of strengthening the commitment of officials to the task. If legislation is the desired path, the coordinating committee should manage the processes aimed at giving effect to such a decision. Enacting legislation can often be a difficult and lengthy process and appropriate steps will probably have to be pursued with some vigour. It may be a complex task to draft an instrument or instruments that convey the content of the plan, while at the same time maintaining an appropriate relationship with other national legislation. Obviously the government will have to 70