summary paper - Alliance of Religions and Conservation

again the importance contributed to this area by the Development Minister and by the
Government.
· Choosing the right channels for aid is one of the most important, yet arguably one of the most
challenging tasks within development cooperation. We realize that we, even with our over 50
years of experience as a donor of development aid, really are newcomers compared to
religious organizations and their extensive work to relieve poverty and provide basic services
to the poor. I many countries they do have a network on the ground that very few, if any, can
match.
· Norway has always worked very closely with civil society organizations, including faith­based
organizations and religious institutions. We will continue to do so. In fact, a very large share of
our bilateral aid is channelled through NGOs and other civil society institutions – Norwegian,
international and those of our partner countries. These organizations play a very important
role, not only as service providers, but also as watchdogs.
· We will continue to look into ways of working more directly with organizations in the south.
· We know, however, that no sustainable development can be achieved without a strong state,
with sufficient administrative capacity to really take charge of the country’s own development
plans. Therefore,
· We hope to have provided an arena for discussion and reflection. We know there are
challenges, but there are also most certainly opportunities for further cooperation.
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