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Government/Sector Dialogue

Diagram of The Regulatory Bridge
Legal Framework Regulation Government/Sector Dialogue Sector Capacity

We support the environment and mechanisms conducive to the development of a co-operative and mutually respectful relationship between government and NGOs.

A key element of effective NGO regulation, which is often overlooked, is the communication between government and the NGO sector. Regulation does not work if it does not take into account the needs and realities of the NGO sector. In order to understand this, the government has to engage with the NGO sector and establish proper mechanisms for dialogue.

Similarly NGO sectors need to appreciate the legitimate role of government in overseeing the NGO sector and ensuring its accountability. Communication between government and the sector needs to be based on a mutual respect for each other and for the principles of good governance.

The ability of the NGO sector and government to communicate effectively is also affected by broad government policies, which are not solely concerned with regulation. These include policies on issues such as consultation, volunteering and delivering services to the public.