Accountability Is Everyone’s Business: CSO Go Launches National Framework for Civil Society Organisations in Trinidad and Tobago
New national accountability push
CSO Go has launched a National Accountability Framework (NAF) to help civil society organisations (CSOs) in Trinidad and Tobago strengthen governance, transparency and long-term sustainability. Developed under the EU-funded IGNITE CSOs project, the framework positions civil society as a critical national development partner alongside the public and private sectors.
Why accountability, why now
The NAF underscores that accountability is essential for CSOs to maintain public trust, remain true to their missions and deliver impactful services. It highlights that accountability, grounded in local laws and culture, helps organisations demonstrate responsibility, transparency, integrity and effective governance in a changing legislative environment.
Benefits, risks and core principles
The initiative outlines how strong accountability promotes transparency, boosts public trust, strengthens democracy, protects human rights and supports sustainable development. It also warns that weak accountability can fuel corruption, erode confidence, undermine democratic institutions and increase human rights violations and social inequality.
Key practice areas for CSOs
The framework sets out practical standards across four core areas: governance, financial management, project management and human resource management. Examples from local organisations, including Rotary Club of Tobago, FPATT, NCPD, The Cropper Foundation and others, show how CSOs are already putting these practices into action through accreditation, due diligence, transparent reporting and inclusive HR policies.
Seven-step roadmap and call to join
To make accountability part of everyday operations, the NAF proposes a seven-step process, from self-assessment and customisation to stakeholder engagement, capacity building, action planning, monitoring, evaluation and continuous improvement. CSO Go reports that 229 individuals and 196 CSOs have already joined the movement and is inviting organisations to explore the full framework and take the online self-assessment to begin or deepen their accountability journey.
