Ministry of Economy, Planning and Cooperation (Ministère de l'Économie, du Plan et de la Coopération) - Permanent Secretariat for NGOs (Secrétariat Permanent des ONG) (SPONG)

Associations are first recognised by the Minister in charge of Territorial Administration. NGO status (agrément) is then granted by order of the Minister of Economy, Planning and Cooperation, after the opinion of the technical ministries. The Ministry's Permanent Secretariat for NGOs (SPONG) coordinates NGOs, checks their compliance and monitors them. An Interministerial Consultative Committee for NGO matters is set up within the Ministry.

A national association that wants NGO status applies to the Minister of Economy, Planning and Cooperation with its recognition decision from the Minister of Territorial Administration and the supporting documents. NGO status is granted by ministerial order for three years, renewable. The decision is due within two months of a complete application; if there is no reply in that time, approval is deemed granted. Foreign NGOs also need an establishment agreement (convention d'établissement) from the Minister of Territorial Administration, and they pay a fee to join the register of international NGOs. Approved NGOs can sign a three-year collaboration agreement with the Government, and after two years a performance contract renewable each year. NGOs must get an accreditation letter from the local authorities where they work. They must send their annual work plan by the last working day of November. Within three months of the year end they must send their execution report and financial statements. SPONG officials may inspect their accounts and premises. The Minister can give formal notice, suspend for up to three months or withdraw approval.