This requires that Governments give adequate support to the administration of justice as well as to public administration which should be responsive to the requirements of their people. Governments are encouraged, where appropriate, to decentralize their public institutions and services to a level that, compatible with their overall responsibilities, priorities and objectives, responds properly to local needs and facilitates local participation. Governments, when they consider it appropriate, could work on decentralization programmes with the support of donors and international institutions. The key to participatory development means fulfilling the potential of people by enlarging their capabilities, and this necessarily implies empowerment of people, enabling them to participate actively in their own development. In order to fulfil their potential, people, especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged, must participate actively in establishing and maintaining independent organizations representing their interests, within each country's constitutional framework.
Political empowerment is an integral aspect of participatory development.
A vigorous civil society is indispensable for popular participation at all levels and an essential component of any successful development strategy. Community organizations, business and workers' organizations, NGOs and self-help groups must be actively involved. Governments should view them as important actors and partners in development. Greater accountability and transparency in such organizations' activities would be helpful in this regard. In countries where the participation of civil society is weak, it should be a major purpose of public policy to strengthen it.