USAID participates in Global Civil Society Forum in Qatar

USAID's Center for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Director Terri Hasdorff participated in discussions highlighting the ever-increasing role of civil society organizations -- which include faith-based organizations, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and universities -- in development.

She discussed innovative approaches to governments' inclusive approach with civil society organizations, in particular, through the U.S. Faith-Based and Community Initiative.

"Local, grassroots civil society organizations and the private sector are vital partners in development. Through its Faith-Based and Community Initiative and the Global Development Alliance, USAID has been working to expand strategic partnerships with civil society organizations throughout the developing world."

said Henrietta Fore, Director of U.S. Foreign Assistance and Administrator of USAID.

The Doha Global Civil Society Forum brought together more than 250 participants to discuss and finalize their recommendations to the decision- makers for the International Conference on Financing for Development, also in Doha, from November 29-December 2, 2008.

The Conference will attract donor and partner country officials, leaders of development agencies, and civil society organizations from all over the world. Fore will lead the U.S. government delegation.

As the single largest bilateral donor, the U.S. government is firmly committed to working with and enhancing civil society's role in development.