In order to acquire that ability, it is not enough to merely elect officials or simply run for office. Self-determined, meaningful politics calls for a mature and active civil society. After all, the meaning of the word democracy implies that the people rule, the many – not the few.

The EU-funded project “Democratic Party Development Bangsamoro” provides the knowledge and the skills to become an active part of politics. Genuine, democratic, membership-based political parties establish the breeding ground for fair and active civil society participation in public decision-making. Therefore, this publication elaborates on the foundations of political parties itself, on how to build and run organizations that shall have a meaningful impact on politics in Mindanao. Konrad-Adenauer- Stiftung and the Institute for Autonomy and Governance (as the implementing organizations of this project) hope to contribute to lasting peace in Mindanao through our efforts in civic education and political party building. We aim to provide the tools to build vehicles for political pluralism, fair competition and, eventually, a better future for the people of the Bangsamoro.