National poverty reduction strategy papers (Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers-PRSP) are being designed and implemented by many low income countries. Basic principles of these documents are the self-responsibility of the countries (ownership) and the participation of civil society (participation). However, in cooperation with the international community and within the different interests of each country, this does not always run smoothly. SÜDWIND has observed the developments in several countries and has cooperated with partners of church aid agencies.