It is important that NGOs understand and internalise the rights, interests and viewpoints of those with whom and for whom they work. They should ensure that decision-making processes, strategic directions and lessons learnt are informed by the views of their primary stakeholders. As all the stakeholders are not equal in power, they should also endeavour to to address power inequalities in consultation and decision-making mechanisms. 

Participatory tools to support participation and inclusion include:

• Social map – to identify the relative location of households, the distribution of different people, and the social structure, groups and organisations in an area.
• Chapatti diagram - to map actors and institutions and analyse their relative power and influence.

References

• ActionAid Accountability Charter, 2013.
• Emergency Preparedness and Response Handbook, ActionAid, Nov 2014, Ref. 7.1.4