PUBLISHED: OCTOBER 4, 2007

Working in close cooperation with a National Legal Consultant, ICNL recently completed an Assessment Report on the Legal Framework Affecting NGOs in Mauritius. The assessment report is based on legal and field research conducted between March 2006 and September 2007, and results from an inclusive and participatory process. Significantly, the assessment report contains specific recommendations for the improvement of the legal and regulatory framework. ICNL is currently providing assistance to local stakeholders in preparing amendments to various laws affecting NGOs.

The review of the legal and regulatory framework is one component of a broader project entitled Strengthening of the NGO Sector in Mauritius. The project is funded and administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The implementing partners for the project include the Mauritius Council of Social Services (MACOSS) and the Ministry of Social Sercurity, National Solidarity, Senior Citizens Welfare and Reform Institutions. By strengthening the NGO sector, the project aims to enhance the role of the sector as an able and meaningful partner of government and the private sector in the socio-economic development of the country.