</<P align="justify">The Stability Pact Anti-Corruption Initiative held a conference in Cavtat (Croatia) on 16-18 September, on the role of civil society in the fight against corruption.

The conference gave the opportunity to civil society representatives from countries of South Eastern Europe to have a frank and open dialogue with their government representatives, International Organisations and the Donor Community.

More than 100 representatives from the media, business community and NGO’s of different countries from South Eastern Europe shared views, listed difficulties and discussed potential regional action.

Bodo Hombach, the Special Co-ordinator, stated: "Corruption will not be eradicated without an active role of the civil society. It is the intention of the Stability Pact to continue to offer a forum for exchange and co-operation between all actors involved in the fight against corruption."

The conference identified key recommendations for actions to be taken within countries of the region to promote a more active role of the civil society.

All info about the Stability Pact Anti-Corruption Initiative and this conference can be accessed at http://www.oecd.org/daf/SPAIcom/index.htm.