To provide for an integrated and horizontal implementation, the NSDS contains a ‘road map’ that indicates the institutions responsible for each measure. The NSDS also makes cross-references to other plans and action programmes which have to be reviewed following the new guidelines and objectives outlined in the NSDS.

The horizontal mechanisms have two main functions:

• coordinating the implementation of the NSDS in the public administration sectors,
• reviewing the progress in the implementation of the NSDS.