ABSTRACT
By bringing together their respective competencies and resources for the greater good, people in governments, business, civil-society and multilateral agencies have been seeking innovative ways to respond to many of the key development challenges of time. The impact of climate change; human security; the prevention, management and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other major diseases; the generation of new investment, entrepreneurship and employment; and financing for development. Over 90% of corporate executives responding to a World Economic Forum survey felt that future 'partnerships between business, government, and civil society would play either a major role or some role in addressing key development challenges'. Although cross-sector partnerships hold considerable potential as a new organisational form for promoting sustainable development and other societal aims, partners from the different sectors recognise that there are considerable inherent risks. Non-governmental organisations and UN agencies are concerned that partnerships with business could threaten their integrity and independence.
