The Istanbul principles were approved in 2010 by a consensus of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), to facilitate and strengthen the activities of various CSOs and ensure they work in line with global best practices.
As a statement of common values that guide the work of CSOs, with adaptability to diverse country contexts and approaches, these eight principles form the foundation for the International Framework for CSO Development Effectiveness and the Busan Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.
Very importantly, the principles set standards that govern CSO development work around the globe and apply universally to the roles of CSOs and practices in all settings,including conflict situations and in their different spheres of work.
The 8 Istanbul Principles on development effectiveness include:
Respect and promote human rights and social justice
Embody gender equality and equity while promoting women’s and girls’ rights
Focus on people’s empowerment, democratic ownership and participation.
Promote environmental sustainability
Practice transparency and accountability
Pursue equitable partnerships and solidarity
Create and share knowledge and commit to mutual understanding
Commit to realizing positive sustainable change.
In any part of the world,the civil society forms an integral part of government. They help bring development to the people and can be likened to a piece of machinery that steers the wheel of the government.
These principles therefore, serve as a guide to the activities of CSOs and enable members to check their own effectiveness and accountability with the aim of strengthening civic space and ensuring the government does not enact stringent laws that will clamp down the activities of CSOs in Nigeria and world over.