Effective and efficient civil society organisations have been a hallmark of successful societies, whether it is in the form of farmer’s federations, arts clubs or other non-governmental organisations.
However, in many societies, they are seen as a threat. Over the span of two years, 64 laws, regulations and other initiatives that put restrictions on civil society were adopted and put into force.
The Aga Khan Foundation therefore seeks to encourage positive developments in civil society. It sees a robust, efficient civil society – increasingly funded by indigenous sources – as a key driver of the overall quality of life, both in developing and developed countries.
His Highness the Aga Khan
Alongside La Caixa Foundation and a variety of partners, AKF has worked through Juntos! to enable civil society organisations to access, create and deliver cost-effective and engaging training courses to help them address gaps in knowledge and build their skills.
A large number of migrants residing in Lisbon do not speak Portuguese and therefore cannot access key COVID-19 health messages. AKF Portugal has been working with the government and volunteer translators to ensure that they do. AKF Portugal’s Sandra Almeida discusses the work being done by the Foundation and some inspirational volunteers. Briefly, what is…
Like the rest of the world, the impact of Coronavirus has begun to be felt in sub-Saharan Africa. Whilst the total confirmed cases is still small in Mozambique the number is growing and a variety of lockdown measures are now in place. As part of our efforts to slow and stop transmission, alongside La Caixa Foundation,…
The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) sees an effective civil society – increasingly funded by indigenous sources – as key to improving the overall quality of life, both in developing and developed countries. That is why AKF, alongside the la Caixa Foundation, has been investing in Mozambican civil society since 2013 through Juntos! Founded on the ethics and…
The first comprehensive study of charitable giving in three major countries in eastern Africa reveals that the emerging middle classes are giving away roughly a quarter of their earnings each month to help others. Compared with giving levels detailed in the Charities Aid Foundation’s (CAF) World Giving Index, these astonishing levels of generosity outstrip those of…
His Highness the Aga Khan today emphasised three essential ingredients for stability and effective development in fragile contexts: a focus on local communities, a commitment to pluralism and the importance of a strong civil society. The Aga Khan was speaking at an event entitled, “Fragile States ‘Weiterdenken’(‘Thinking Ahead’) – Utilising Experiences from Stabilisation Measures for…
Lamu Island, known for its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and UNESCO world heritage town has until recently been spared much of the instability that has affected mainland Kenya. However, rapid social and economic shifts and an insurgency along the border with neighbouring Somalia are spilling over and impacting the region. Young people are particularly vulnerable…
