Progetto Continenti is a laic, non-confessional and non-profit NGO (non-governmental organization) for solidarity and international cooperation. (see articles of association)

Since 1989 we have cooperated with partners and civil associations of developing countries carrying out development projects in education, professional training, health protection, human rights, local economy through small micro-credit projects, and protection of the natural environment .

Progetto Continenti was set up by a group of friends following a "solidarity" trip to Central America at the end of 1988. The association was legally constituted on the 11th May 1989. In 1991 it achieved official recognition to operate with the European Commission, and since July 1998 it has been registered as an ONLUS (non-profit organisation for social good). In 1999 Progetto Continenti was also officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Since 1990 the association has been part of CISPI, an Italian laic NGOs network, and CONCORD, the network of European NGOs that cooperate with the European Union.

Progetto Continenti means the interdependence of people from all continents for peace, sustainable development, justice and the right to life.

The guiding principles of our activities are:

Self-development of people; improvement of living conditions can be achieved only if local people are main actors of the development process.

Partnership with local organizations and institutions on development projects; the strengthening of local partners is fundamental to ensure the continuity of initiatives when external aid is no longer present.

Participation of local target communities in the implementation of projects.

Overcoming of inequalities, through concrete projects offered to the poorest people in order to give access to basic services.

In our daily work we try to live and promote values:

• of solidarity in social life as well as in economic relations and activities.
• of direct participation on the part of citizens and communities to build a world on a human scale
• of peace based on justice and respect for people, cultures and religious diversity.