A training session entitled “Internal Governance and Transparency in Civil Society Organisations: The Path to Success and Accountability” took place in Kyrgyzstan.
The event was jointly organised by the Transparency International Secretariat and Transparency International Kyrgyzstan. It brought together 25 representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) and grassroots groups from across the country. The main focus was on developing and implementing internal policies to enhance transparency and accountability, and analysing the specific corruption risks faced by the non-profit sector.
The Executive Director of Transparency International Russia, Alyona Vandysheva, emphasised the importance of declaring conflicts of interest as a key condition for effective governance:
“Many CSOs turn a blind eye to potential conflicts of interest. Yet undeclared conflicts of interest often create fertile ground for corruption. Staff members, having access to insider information, may use it for personal gain. This is why declaring conflicts of interest is not a mere formality, but the foundation of transparent operations.”
Participants discussed measures to mitigate corruption risks, from conducting due diligence on partners and prohibiting facilitation payments to developing clear guidelines for providing sponsorship and participating in charitable activities. A separate session addressed the financial sustainability of CSOs in the context of reduced international funding.
The training served as a platform for exchanging best practices and experiences and discussing the pressing challenges faced by the non-profit sector in Kyrgyzstan and the wider region — from the crisis of trust in NGOs to finding a balance between openness and security.
Transparency International Russia remains committed to sharing its expertise with all who need it, anywhere in the world.
