Civil Society Organisations Academy

Civil society organisations—making democracy work
Civil society organisations (CSOs) are crucial for a democracy to function. They monitor government institutions and policies, create awareness of individuals' rights, organise and mobilise people and strengthen their capacity to assert their rights. They also offer community services themselves when states do not.What civil society organisations do
A civil society organisation (CSO) or non-governmental organisation (NGO) is a non-profit, voluntary citizens’ group which is organised on a local, national or international level.
Task-oriented and driven by people with a common interest, civil society organisations perform a variety of services and humanitarian functions. They bring citizens’ concerns to governments, monitor policies, and encourage political participation. CSOs provide analysis and expertise, serve as early warning mechanisms, and help monitor and implement international agreements.
The Palme Center’s cooperation with CSOs
The Palme Center mainly works with CSOs within the international labour movement and/or organisations that are active in the areas of societal change, union rights, democracy and human rights.
Our aim is to:
- Strengthen CSOs institutional and organisational capacity
- Foster alliance-building between civil society, political parties and the trade union movement
- Support civil society organisations in developing policy and reform proposals for progressive and sustainable development.
News for all OPC partners
Toolbox
Forms for application and reporting
All templates and documents that may be needed in the collaboration can be found here – from agreements to budget and accounting forms.
Method material
Tools and materials that can be helpful in your work. Use them to deal with themes such as gender equality, climate, anti-corruption and risk management.
Recorded trainings
You will find upcoming workshops under News for all OPC partners. Here you can take part of recordings of past trainings on topics such as climate or gender integration.