The NGO code of conduct

The NGO Code of Conduct is a set of good practice principles for NGOs that work in the fi eld of HIV and AIDS. These good practice principles can be applied to both how the work is done and what work is done by NGOs.

The Code was developed through consultations with many NGOs. This was headed by a steering committee of twelve international NGOs, hosted by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. In 2005, SAT hosted a regional meeting, training facilitators in the Code’s principles. The information learnt was shared at a series of workshops throughout the region in 2006.

What is the NGO Code of Conduct?
It is a shared vision of good practice that can guide the programme and advocacy work of NGOs. It is a standard that NGOs can strive to achieve. It will help them to develop and manage their programmes. The principles set out in the Code can be used to guide the following:

• The planning in the organisation;
• The development, structuring and evaluation of programmes – including advocacy programmes;
• The way in which advocacy work is done to make sure there is eff ective roll-out of general responses to HIV and AIDS;
• The way resources are shared based on the principles of the organisation;
• The organisation’s ways to make sure that essential programmes are available where they are needed.