In Bhutan, a civil society organization (CSO) is a local nonprofit organization that is not part of the government but complements the government’s efforts and plays a significant role in the development of the country. In a small country like Bhutan, CSOs play a major role in mobilizing and sensitizing communities more effectively than do government institutions; draw attention to new development challenges that require political attention; encourage greater development effectiveness by promoting accountability; and become service providers in areas of need, such as education, health, and governance. Developing a strong civil society also reinforces democracy, the practice of democratic procedures, and the experience of personal responsibility for the public good.

Capacity Building for Civil Society Organizations 

Since the Civil Society Act was established in 2007, the number of CSOs in Bhutan continues to grow. With the increasing demands and needs of a rapidly developing society, these CSOs must develop strategic plans in fulfilling their roles and accomplishing their missions. With these needs in mind, the Bhutan Foundation has mapped out steps that would continue to build on the current success and vitality of the existing CSOs by providing them with opportunities to build their organizational capacity through development workshops and training as well as space for greater collaboration among the nation’s CSOs.

The Civil Society Development Program works to strengthen and support civil society organizations’ ability to deliver to the people and to serve the public while promoting high standards in accountability, ethics, and management.

Project Objectives

Our Civil Society Development Program aims to achieve the following objectives:

• Help build capacity among CSOs and facilitate better collaboration among the various organizations.
• Improve CSO organizational capacity and extend professional help through workshops in management, finance, marketing, fundraising, and public relations.
• Contribute toward building a proficient civil society sector and encourage the public to identify, select, and support effective organizations.
• Build and maintain a forum where CSOs may share and disseminate information and eventually maintain a comprehensive database of information on the activities of civil society organizations in Bhutan.