A delegation of the Conference of INGOs of the Council of Europe carried out fact-finding visits to the Republic of Moldova and Bulgaria to meet with NGOs and discuss with them their participation in the decision-making process. Discussion focused on key questions such as what tools exist which allow them be heard and participate in decision-making, at what moment are they consulted, in what manner, is their point of view taken into account. The delegation held meetings with NGOs and with senior officials in several Ministries and the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova and Bulgaria.

The country visits also aim to reinforce the links between civil society in member States and the Conference of INGOs. The results of the meetings will contribute to one of the priorities of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe which is the drafting of new guidelines on civil society's effective and meaningful participation in the political decision-making process.

The findings of the country visits were presented at the meeting of the Conference of INGOs on 29 January with the participation of the Ambassadors of the two countrys and national NGOs.

Report of the visit to Chisinau

Statement by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Moldova to the Council of Europe

Comments on the report by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova

Programme of the visit to Chisinau, 9-11 November

Report of the visit to Sofia 

Comments on the report from the Bulgarian Government

Programme of the visit to Sofia, 23-25 November