Introduction


     This paper consists of two main parts. The first part seeks to describe aspects of the role of civil society organisations (CSOs) before, during and after the World Summit for Social Development which was held in Copenhagen in 1995. The second makes some broader observations on the role of CSOs at international levels, especially in relation to social policy. The observations are drawn from practical experience and occasional reflection rather than extensive research and analysis.

     The term CSO is used here to include any organisation except those which are governmental, commercial or military. It is preferred to the term non-governmental organisation (NGO) partly because it is more positive but mainly because the term NGO has acquired so many confused and confusing meanings in international usage.