Discussion program on ‘Issues and Challenges Faced by Civil Society Organizations' conducted in Pokhara.

The NGO Federation of Nepal conducted a comprehensive discussion program on 25 December 2023 in Pokhara, bringing together board members, and representatives from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The event aimed to discuss the prevalent challenges faced by CSOs, including taxation issues, VAT complications, and legal as well as policy hurdles. The discussion program had active participation from board members of the NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN), Mr. Bhagwan Shrestha, Chairperson of Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN), and representatives from different civil society organizations. The diverse representation discussed about the collective effort required to tackle the multifaceted challenges faced by CSOs. The main focus of the discussion revolved around the challenges encountered by CSOs concerning taxes, VAT, and legal impediments. Participants engaged in a candid conversation, sharing insights and experiences to shed light on the pressing issues hindering the effective functioning of these organizations. Mr. Bhagwan Shrestha, chairperson of AIN highlighted the deep interconnection between INGOs and NGOs, stating that the impact on one entity spreads across the entire network. The shared challenges faced by both entities necessitate a cohesive strategy to address common issues and foster a supportive environment. Ms. Bhawana Bhatta, vice chairperson of the NFN contributed to the discussion by emphasizing the importance of strengthening policies, institutions, and practices. She asserted that a robust framework is crucial to create an enabling environment for CSOs to thrive and fulfill their missions effectively. Mr. Ram Prasad Subedi, chairperson of the NFN in the discussion, emphasized the need for unity among CSOs. He stressed that a collaborative effort is essential to advocate for the resolution of policy hurdles that hamper the growth and impact of civil society initiatives. The discussion program served as a platform for open dialogue and strategizing to overcome the hurdles faced by Civil Society Organizations in Nepal. The insights shared by the participants will likely pave the way for concrete actions and policy advocacy to create a more conducive working environment for CSOs in the country.