The role of NGOs in the Charter's monitoring mechanism

NGOs must be regarded by states as preferred partners in the pursuit of the shared aim of promoting language diversity. Their role is decisive, both before and after ratification of the Charter. Prior to ratification, they may assist states to choose the languages concerned and the provisions of Part III that they wish to apply within their territory. Their role in the monitoring of the honouring of commitments is to advise the committee of experts and the national authorities of any problem that may arise when the Charter is implemented in states. 

We recommend a little handbook on the Charter for the attention of NGOs - "Working Together: NGOs and regional or minority languages", edited by Council of Europe Publishing:

- copies may be ordered from the Council of Europe Publishing site.