The Twelve Concepts

The Twelve Concepts for World Service describe how the principles of recovery and unity carry
through into AA’s service structure — how groups, committees, and trusted servants work together so
that AA’s primary purpose is served responsibly and the fellowship endures.

In brief, the Concepts establish that final responsibility and authority for AA services rest with
the groups; that this authority is delegated through the Conference to trusted servants and boards;
that decisions are reached through discussion, the “Right of Decision,” the “Right of Participation,”
and respect for minority opinion; and that those who serve do so as trusted servants, not governors —
always placing principles before personalities.

Because the full text of the Twelve Concepts is lengthy and best read in full, we link to the
official source rather than abbreviate it here.

Read the Twelve Concepts at aa.org

The Twelve Concepts for World Service are © A.A. World Services, Inc. Summarized here
for informational use; full text at aa.org.