While the government is increasingly responsible for setting global policies, regional and local authorities are responsible for their implementation. In the field of the environment and development, different commissions and cooperation structures exist at regional and local level.

At provincial level, the Inter Provincial Consultation Commission (IPO) is the co-ordinating body of the twelve provinces. The Commission has sub-commissions specialised in different fields and advises the provinces on the implementation of policies concerning environment, rural areas and water.

At municipal level, the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG) plays an important role in the implementation of environmental measures as stated in the NEPPs. The VNG advises and offers services to its members and functions as an information point.

VNG-International is the international department of the VNG. Its mission is twofold: (1) to strengthen local governments and their institutions in developing nations and countries in transition; and (2) to support Dutch municipalities in the development of their international co-operation policies. VNG-International manages and implements several co-financing programmes for Dutch municipalities with international contacts.

One form of development cooperation at the municipal level that started in the late seventies is the 'twinning' arrangements. The municipal authorities, or local groups in conjunction with the municipality, engage in development cooperation by establishing relationships with one or various cities in Southern or CEE countries. The ‘twinning’ includes information exchange, the financing of development projects and development education initiatives.

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