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Culture is a term, that can be understood in a number of ways. PAI has developed the following definition for the purpose of its work:

Culture is a shared, learned, symbolic system of values, beliefs and attitudes that shapes and influences perception and behaviour. Culture is not static, it is always changing and can have positive and negative effects on the actions and behaviour of people.

Knowledge of cultural norms and values play a central role as in relief and development. Cultural factors often determine the success or failure of development efforts.Knowledge and understanding of a specific culture can only be gained and used to inform the design of an appropriate project when done in cooperation with project partners and the local communities.

Partner Aid International believes that cultural knowledge and understanding is one of the most important factors for succesful development cooperation.