A diverse and multifaceted organisation Protection of the Alps from the top down, at national government level? Or from the bottom up, together with the communities and the population? CIPRA is convinced that both are important. On the one hand, CIPRA has initiated and shaped an international treaty like the Alpine Convention and on the other hand, it supports communal networks and reorganises them in a spirit of cooperation with the local authorities. On the other hand, it supports municipal networks and encourages the participation of civil society - a proven dual strategy for the protection of the Alps.We work from the top down by getting involved in technical and political bodies and contributing our expertise and perspectives there. Bringing perspectives. These are guided by the priorities of the Alpine Convention. Controversial issues, together with ideas are presented to policy makers, including environment ministers, in the Alpine countries and other regional entities.