The controversies surrounding international aid have been innovatively addressed in the formulation of the concept of development co-operation within the RTD framework. This formulation introduces certain distinct characteristics aimed at reducing the stigma attached to development aid, moving from a traditional recipient-donor relationship to a mutually beneficial partnership. Moreover, in contrast to a singular focus on aid flows, the RTD framework suggests a comprehensive package of development cooperation comprising other measures such as trade and investments.

Article 2(3) of the Declaration on the Right to Development specifically calls upon states as members of the international community to co-operate with each other for the creation of conditions favorable to the realization of the Right to Development. This necessarily entails the introduction of a rights-based approach into the realm of international economic relations, placing centre stage, principles of equity, non-discrimination, accountability, transparency and effective popular participation. An externally funded programme that is found to violate the specific rights of individuals would fundamentally stand to contradict the Right to Development principles. A development partnership must therefore complement and support the active realization of Right to Development. The Development Compacts initiative proposed by the Independent Expert, seeks to regularize and institutionalize the reciprocal obligations existing between countries of gradually realizing and fulfilling the Right to Development.