Transparency as a condition for survival

The training “Internal governance and transparency in civil society organizations (CSOs): The path to success and accountability” took place in Kyrgyzstan.

The event was organized jointly by the Secretariat of Transparency International and Transparency International Kyrgyzstan and brought together 25 representatives of CSOs and initiative groups from all regions of the country. The main attention was paid to the development and implementation of internal policies aimed at increasing transparency and accountability, as well as the analysis of specific corruption risks faced by the non-profit sector.

Director of Transparency International - Russia Alena Vandysheva noted the importance of declaring conflicts of interest as a prerequisite for effective management:

“Many CSOs turn a blind eye to potential conflicts of interest. Meanwhile, it is the undeclared conflict of interest that often becomes fertile ground for corruption. Employees who gain access to inside information can use it for personal gain. Therefore, declaring a conflict of interest is not a formality, but the basis for transparent work.”

Participants discussed measures to minimize corruption risks - from checking the reliability of partners and prohibiting accelerating payments to developing instructions for providing sponsorship and participation in charitable initiatives. A separate block was devoted to the financial sustainability of CSOs in the face of reduced international funding.

The training became a platform for sharing best practices and experiences, as well as discussing current challenges for the non-profit sector of Kyrgyzstan and the region as a whole - from the crisis of trust in NPOs to finding a balance between openness and security.

Transparency International - Russia is always ready to share its experience with everyone who needs it, anywhere in the world.