Civil Society Brief: Mongolia

Abstract

Prior to 1990, the Government of Mongolia established civil society organizations (CSOs) under the socialist regime; they were known as mass organizations. Well-known examples included the Trade Union, the Mongolian Youth Federation, and the Mongolian Women’s Federation. After 1990, these mass CSOs reformed and continued their activities as independent nongovernment organizations (NGOs). Prior to 1992, CSOs were established for political purposes. Notable organizations included the Mongolian Democratic Coalition and the Mongolian Social Democrats movements. Thereafter, CSOs protected common interests of different groups: examples of these included the Liberal Women’s Brain Pool, Women for Social Progress Movement, Gender Center for Sustainable Development, and National Center Against Violence. Within the democratic system, civil society movements have become one of the most active parts of the Mongolian society. In the last 2 decades, CSOs have become more diverse; however, the legal and regulatory environment remain the same and do not meet the development needs of the CSOs.