During recent decades, the importance of civil society organisations (CSOs) has grown tremendously across the globe. CSOs have successfully lobbied for a ban on land mines and on nuclear testing: they have protected large areas of rainforest, they have been crucial in eradicating polio; and they have brought millions of children to school and saved the lives of millions of other people in emergencies.

CSOs could, however, achieve even more. By setting clearer objectives, measuring results, developing more efficient structures and being more transparent in reporting, CSOs could become more effective in their work for a better world.

In this work, it is crucial that CSOs systematically learn from each other and from other sectors – especially from the business sector – and that they have access to high quality professional advice.

Until recently, international CSOs have lacked a platform for joint learning and for receiving and giving advice. The aim of the Berlin Civil Society Center is to fill this gap.

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