7.1 Formulating political strategies
Civil society organisations can be important allies in formulating strategies and designing anti-corruption approaches.
7. Working with civil society: from political inclusion to tactical cooperation
Summary of recommendations
Include civil society insights and research in mission and threat assessment for a fuller perspective, and coordinate with CSOs when designing and implementing anti-corruption activities.
Involve civil society organisations in project oversight where possible, and take signals of wrongdoing seriously.
Introduction to key mitigation
The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) recognises the importance of civil society in preventing and limiting the impact of corruption. It also recommends increased transparency and civil society participation in the formulation and monitoring of government policies. Civil society organisations (CSOs) can play a significant role in reversing the influence of corrupt networks and the institutional corruption they enable; they can help push for more inclusive policies; and create or maintain the impetus for reform.
Costs and benefits
Since the armed forces and civil society organisations often have different goals, priorities and modes of operating, cooperation between them can be challenging; establishing trust will take time and patience. However, CSOs’ ability to add to a fuller operational picture and the key role they can play in informing anti-corruption strategies and maintaining the impetus for reform makes their contribution a valuable one.
Constituent mitigations for:
7. Working with civil society: from political inclusion to tactical cooperation
These constituent mitigations provide further guidance on effective anti-corruption mitigation measures for military operations.
7.2 Tactical cooperation: project oversight
CSO participation in project implementation at the tactical level can limit the risks of diversion and fraud, especially in fragile and conflict environments.
Explore Constituent Mitigation