Innovation, solidarity and South-South Learning: the role of civil society from middle-income countries in effective development cooperation

Civil society organisations (CSOs) from middle-income countries can play multiple strategically important roles in effective development cooperation. Beyond demanding transparency and accountability around the aid that their own countries still receive, they can add signifi cant value to development cooperation provided to other countries. They have been key actors – alongside government and businesses – in developing innovative practices which have immense potential to contribute to the global struggle against poverty. In some cases, they have considerable experience of sharing these practices and influencing their integration into policies internationally as well as at home.