The United Nations Development Program and the European Union's joint decision to help China improve its legal and operational frameworks for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is a move with far-reaching impact.

Positive changes will be worth a lot more than the funds committed.

The recipients, in particular the Ministry of Civil Affairs, have promised to review existing rules governing NGOs and even reward those performing well.

Few NGOs may entertain hopes of receiving such a pat on the back. But all NGOs will benefit from a less restrictive atmosphere.

That the Chinese authorities responded positively to the UNDP-EU proposal and accepted the financing shows a welcome change in their attitude toward NGOs. This is good for all parties.

Our once highly centralized society retains a deep-rooted distrust of unofficial social institutions.

But the days are long gone when the government was able to take care of every aspect of social life.

The government's continuing tight grip on NGOs appears increasingly out of sync.

For example, the requirement that all NGOs be affiliated with an official institution so as to be registered and operate legally is a regular target of complaint.

Such compulsory affiliation is no guarantee that NGOs operate as required.

At the same time, it suffocates numerous good ideas and potential acts of benevolence that may otherwise yield tremendous benefits.

Because of these awkward requirements, many NGOs operate illegally.

NGOs may be an indispensable supplement to government efforts in many areas of social work. Possibly undesirable activities, which are the justification for the authorities' long-term vigilance, can be eliminated through sensible administration.

Our leaders have spoken extensively on the benefits of a united front in nation building. NGOs should not be left out.

An NGO-friendly political climate will not only mean more breathing space for the NGOs. It is essential to the growth of a civil society on Chinese soil.

(China Daily 05/25/2007 page10)