We, civil society organisations (CSOs) from around the world, have gathered in Bangkok alongside representatives of our partners in national governments and international institutions, to mark the seventh anniversary of the Istanbul Principles for CSO Development Effectiveness. CSOs contribute in unique and essential ways to development as innovative agents of change and social transformation. CSOs are channels for social solidarity, service, and mobilisation. CSOs implement, monitor, and review effective development cooperation. CSOs enable people to better claim their rights, to improve conditions of life, and to build a democratic society. In 2010, almost 200 CSOs from 82 countries unanimously adopted the Istanbul Principles for CSO Development Effectiveness. These Principles constitute a statement of common values and approaches to guide CSO work, adaptable to highly diverse country contexts and different CSO approaches. They represent a meaningful commitment by CSOs to the practical implementation of the four development effectiveness principles (democratic ownership, focus on results, inclusive partnerships, and transparency and accountability).
