While most NGOs strive responsibly to promote the public good, there are also many organizations that do not follow acceptable standards of conduct, whether in fundraising, governance, the use of public funds, or other matters. One method of assessing and improving NGO accountability is by a program of voluntary, self-assessment whereby individual NGOs or members in an association may evaluate their compliance to a set of standards and certify that they are adhering to the applicable standards.
The Compliance Manual is a tool to help NGOs assess whether their policies and practices are currently in alignment with the Code of Ethics and Conduct for NGOs. It is designed to be used as a both a checklist and catalyst for discussion for NGO staff to review, reflect, and discuss core principles, standards, and ways of conducting services and activities. It also forms the basis for self-certification of the NGO.
