We therefore work shoulder to shoulder with our partners through the processes of change, in a horizontal partnership of mutual learning. We are guided by the priorities and perspectives of our partners in the South. We recognise that different contexts require different solutions. We seek to learn from partner organisations about the challenges they face, the realities surrounding them and the actual constraints to bridging gaps between North and South. Namely, these are:

Solidarity

CODA exists to help our partners in the Global South. We facilitate access to the resources they need – financial and advisory – so that they can put their solutions into practice.

Horizontality

We seek to build horizontal relationships with our partners in which learning is mutual, avoiding top down approaches. Though CODA has overall responsibility for transfer of financial resources, CODA sees its partner’s contribution – in closing inequality gaps, promoting citizen’s participation in policy-making, sharing and disseminating information, and experience – as the cornerstone of the partnership.

Self-Determination

We have an absolute commitment to the principle that the people who can do most to improve the quality of life in poor communities are the members of those communities themselves. They have the knowledge of local conditions and they have the skills to promote change.

Participation

We believe in inclusiveness and we expect all those involved in the projects in which we engage to participate actively.

Trust

The pillars that uphold all aspects of our work are mutual trust and transparency. CODA is committed to obtaining financial resources and advisory assistance.