Incluye bibliografía.

1. Overview -- 2. An evolving relationship -- 3. Lessons of experience -- 4. Emerging issues -- 5. Conclusions -- Boxes: 1. NGOs and civil society -- 2. NGO-World Bank Committee -- 3. Examples of benefits of NGO involvement in Bank assisted projects -- 4. OED's forthcoming NGO study -- Appendix: Cooperation between the World Bank and NGOs: FY97 progress report

The purpose of this report is to take stock of Bank - non-governmental organization (NGO) relations and to help build consensus. It focuses on the need to maintain an appropriate balance in the Bank ' s relations with NGOs. The report specifically covers: 1) ensuring that selection of NGOs with which the Bank interacts is appropriate, is based on strong knowledge of the local NGO community and clear criteria, and is done with due regard to the prerogative of governments; 2) clarifying the involvement of NGOs in commenting on draft policies; 3) improving disclosure of information, particularly regarding NGO involvement in the CAS; 4) disseminating the Bank ' s views on the funding of NGOs through Bank-supported development activities; and 5) understanding more clearly the role of civil society in development and the relationship of NGOs to the other civil society actors. The continued need to build the public constituency for the Bank ' s policies and programs is emphasized.