Partners in development cooperation

The Dutch government implements development policy together with various partners. Partnerships with international organisations, the business community, civil society organisations and knowledge institutions allow the Netherlands to pool knowledge, technology and networks.

International organisations

The Netherlands invests in international agreements, funding international organisations including the United Nations and the World Bank. This allows us to contribute to global financial and economic stability, peace and security and to join forces with international partners to address the deeper causes of poverty, climate change, conflicts and irregular migration.

Cooperation with international organisations also has the following advantages:

  • economies of scale and the benefits of a coordinated approach;
  • legitimacy and political weight;
  • opportunities for a long-term partnership;
  • opportunities to share burdens and risks.

Private sector

The Netherlands is keen to stimulate sustainable economic development worldwide. One of the ways central government does this is by encouraging Dutch businesses to work with businesses and governments in developing countries, in particular micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). For example, through the Dutch Good Growth Fund (DGGF) which supports SMEs in developing countries and the Netherlands.

NGOs and civil society organisations

The Netherlands works together with NGOs that are rooted in the society of developing countries. These include organisations focusing on equal opportunities, human rights and the work done by trade unions. Education and healthcare carried out by local networks associated with churches, for example, may also feature.

Cooperation with NGOs and civil society organisations takes place via various programmes and funds. For example:

Civil society organisations

Civil society organisations are under pressure worldwide. One reason for this are limitations on freedom of expression. The Netherlands is investing in activities that create space for dialogue and dissent, making government policy more effective and inclusive. It also allows companies to work more efficiently and sustainably.

Dutch embassies can cooperate with local NGOs and civil society organisations. These may include development and religious organisations, trade unions, interest groups, popular movements, cultural institutions and diaspora organisations (for people with a migration background, such as refugees).

Research institutions and development cooperation

Research institutes and knowledge institutions are involved in research into aid, trade and investment in developing countries, for example through Top Consortia for Knowledge and Innovation (in Dutch) and knowledge platforms. There are also dedicated platforms for specific development cooperation policy themes:

Participants in these platforms include the government, think tanks, universities, international institutions, NGOS and businesses.