Published 29 October 2026 · Effective from 29 October 2026
The Civil Society Organizations Authority (CSOA) hereby notifies the general public that no organization, group, association, foundation, network, or so-called Community-Based Organization (CBO) shall operate, solicit funds, receive donations, or represent itself as a Civil Society Organization (CSO) without being duly registered with the Civil Society Organizations Authority in accordance with the Civil Society Organizations Act of Bhutan.
The Civil Society Organizations Act recognizes only two categories of CSOs:
- Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs); and
- Mutual Benefit Organizations (MBOs).
All organizations operating for public or mutual benefit purposes are required to register with the CSO Authority prior to commencing operations.
The public is further informed that Local Governments and other agencies are not authorized to register or recognize CSOs outside the framework of the Civil Society Organizations Act.
Any unregistered organization operating as a CSO or soliciting funds without registration shall be liable for appropriate action in accordance with the law.
The public is advised to verify the registration status of organizations with the CSO Authority before extending support, donations, or collaboration.