The NGO bill has been presented to Parliament for its first hearing today.

The bill was forwarded to the parliament by the President's Office.

The purpose of the bill is to ensure the right of every citizen under Article 30 of the Constitution to form associations and societies, to create a framework of accountability for registered Civil Society Organizations and for the financial empowerment of associations.

The bill further specifies the role of the organization's registrar, accountability and monitoring procedures, dissolution procedures, and other relevant systems.

The bill also proposes to strengthen the current policies for registering and monitoring Civil Society Organizations. It states that those registered prior to the enactment of the bill must follow it as well.

Furthermore, it notes that procedures in combining two organizations, as well as for an international organization to carry out activities in the Maldives.

The bill also proposes to form an advisory committee, and states the measures to be taken if an organization violates the rules and regulations.

The legislation also states the procedures regarding keeping financial records, and how to raise funds for organizational activities.