A control device is provided, particularly for use in endoscopes or the like. The control device has proximal and distal end sections which each incorporate an articulation zone and a bending resistant central section arranged therebetween. The control device also comprises outer and inner hollow cylindrical shafts and a control element arranged between the shafts. Force transmitting longitudinal elements extend substantially from the proximal to the distal end section. The longitudinal elements are arranged at angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the control device and are connected together in the regions of their proximal and distal ends in the circumferential direction. The control device further comprises a holding device with the aid of which a part of an articulation zone is fixable, in a bending resistant manner, with respect to the longitudinal direction of the central section or to a functional unit adjoining the proximal or distal end section.
