Hon’ble Lungten Dorji, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Hon’ble Sangay Dorji, Chairperson of the National Council, jointly launched the EU-Funded CSO Project at Terma Linca today. The multi-year EU funded project, titled "Towards Empowering Bhutanese CSOs for Good Governance and Inclusive Development," aims to bolster Bhutanese civil society organizations (CSOs) in collaboration with the Parliament, CSOs, and media houses.

During the launch, the Speaker acknowledged the vital role played by CSOs in advocating for citizens' rights and interests, promoting transparency and accountability, and contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. He emphasized the importance of empowering CSOs to engage in policy dialogue and facilitate citizen participation in decision-making processes. Furthermore, the Speaker highlighted the necessity of collaborative efforts between civil society organizations, government institutions, and parliament to promote good governance and inclusive development in Bhutan. The Speaker said that, “empowering the CSOs will ensure the realization of His Majesty the King's vision of a strong civil society as a fundamental pillar of democracy.  

The Chairperson for the National Council in his address  said that this was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the CSOs and partners towards strengthening democracy and will help overcome the numerous challenges that the CSO’s face paving the way for a robust society. 

The Project will be co-led by Respect Educate Nurture and Empower Women (RENEW), Bhutan Transparency Initiative (BTI) and Save the Children. The Project will implemented in collaboration with the Parliament, CSOs /CBOs and Media Houses in the country.