The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance, 1961
At LegalSeba, we offer comprehensive assistance in the registration of Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (VSWA). The procedural details and requirements for establishing a Voluntary Social Welfare Agency in Bangladesh are outlined below for your reference.
Registration and Supervision of Voluntary Social Welfare Organizations
The Department of Social Services, under the Ministry of Social Welfare, provides registration to various private voluntary organizations under Ordinance No. 46 of 1961, titled The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance. Organizations registered under this ordinance implement the following 15 activities:
1. Child welfare
2. Youth Welfare
3. Women’s welfare
4. Welfare of individuals with physical and mental disabilities
5. Family planning
6. Welfare and rehabilitation of released prisoners
7. Civic education to promote social responsibility and adult education
8. Recreational activities to discourage antisocial behaviour
9. Welfare of juvenile offenders
10. Welfare of beggars and the destitute
11. Welfare of socially disadvantaged individuals
12. Welfare and rehabilitation of patients
13. Welfare of the elderly and physically disabled individuals
14. Training for social welfare activities
15. Coordination of welfare organizations
Support from the Social Welfare Division
Approval of organization names
Registration of voluntary organizations interested in social welfare activities, private orphanages, clubs, or libraries
Approval of constitutions and committees of registered organizations and approval of newly elected committees upon expiration of terms
Approval for expansion of operational areas beyond one district
Resolution of complaints against registered organizations
Supervision of activities of registered organizations
Official Structure
The implementation of services under the Department of Social Services is carried out by its Activity Branch, which operates under the direct leadership and oversight of the Director (Activities). The Director is supported by a structured team comprising Additional Directors, Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, and Social Welfare Officers who are stationed at both the headquarters and field levels to ensure efficient and systematic execution of the department’s responsibilities.
At the district level, the Deputy Directors are tasked with overseeing all activities within their jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. They are further supported by Assistant Directors, who play a critical role in facilitating the operational activities and assisting in the resolution of issues arising at the district level. These officers act as key intermediaries, ensuring effective communication and coordination between the field offices and the headquarters of the Department of Social Services.
Field-level supervision is primarily undertaken by Upazila Social Welfare Officers and City Social Welfare Officers, who are charged with directly monitoring and assessing the implementation of welfare initiatives by registered organizations within their assigned geographical areas. Their responsibilities include conducting routine inspections, verifying compliance with registration conditions, investigating complaints, and providing guidance to ensure that all activities align with the legal and policy frameworks established by the Department of Social Services.
Service Centers
•For approval of names, registration, and committee approvals: Relevant district social services offices
•For operational expansion beyond a district: Headquarters of the Department of Social Services
•For complaint resolution: Both district-level offices and headquarters
Legal Framework
•The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Ordinance, 1961
•The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration and Control) Rules, 1962
Required Procedures for Registration
- Approval of organization name
2. Submission of application using the prescribed Form-B (available at the relevant district office)
3. Attachments with the application:
•Treasury receipt for govt fees
•Verified copies of specific documents such as:
•Constitution of the organization signed by the President/General Secretary
•Minutes of the foundational meeting
•Member and executive committee details, with signatures and photos
•Proof of address and operational area
•Future activity plans and budget
•Recommendations from local government representatives
Responsibilities of Registered Organizations
•Maintain proper records of general members, including photos and forms
•Keep verified financial records and submit annual reports, including audited accounts
•Deposit funds in the organization’s registered bank account
•Notify the registration authority of any address changes within seven days
Penalties for Non-Compliance
•Temporary suspension: For financial irregularities or governance issues
•Appointment of administrators: To manage activities during suspension
•Dissolution: The government may dissolve an organization for violating its constitution, ordinance provisions, or acting against the public interest.
Key Considerations
Legal Status: A society registered under this Ordinance is not recognized as a separate legal entity. It must initiate or defend legal actions through its officers.
Membership Requirements: The organization must have more than seven founding or executive committee members. Additionally, the total number of general members should be at least three times the number of executive committee members.
Foreign Donations: Organizations seeking to receive or utilize foreign donations must obtain Foreign Donations (FD) Registration from the NGOAB.
Annual Returns: An annual return must be submitted to the Social Welfare Department to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
Dissolution: The organization may be dissolved by a vote of three-fifths of its members. If the government is involved in the dissolution process, permission from the government is required.
By adhering to these guidelines and fulfilling the necessary requirements, your organization can successfully register as a Voluntary Social Welfare Agency, enabling it to operate effectively within the legal framework of Bangladesh.
How LegalSeba Can Help with Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies Registration in Bangladesh
At LegalSeba, we provide a robust suite of services to facilitate your Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (VSWA) registration process in Bangladesh. Our offerings include:
Expert Consultation: We assess your organization’s requirements and guide you through the eligibility criteria set by the regulatory bodies associated with the VSWA registration process.
Document Preparation: Our team assists in collecting and preparing all necessary documentation to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
Application Management: We handle the entire application process, from submission to approval, ensuring all steps are meticulously followed.
Continuous Follow-up: We maintain regular communication with the regulatory bodies to track your application status and address any queries or additional requirements promptly.
Inspection Preparation: We help you prepare for any regulatory inspections to ensure your infrastructure and operations meet all regulatory standards.
Lobbying with Authorities: We facilitate effective communication with government authorities to smoothen the registration process.
By choosing LegalSeba, you can navigate the complex regulatory environment with confidence, allowing you to focus on expanding your social welfare operations.
Conclusion
Securing registration for a Voluntary Social Welfare Agency in Bangladesh involves multiple steps and stringent regulatory compliance. LegalSeba is committed to guiding you through each phase, ensuring a seamless and successful application process. Contact us today to begin your journey towards becoming a registered Voluntary Social Welfare Agency in Bangladesh.
For personalized assistance and more information on registering and operating your Voluntary Social Welfare Agency in Bangladesh, reach out to LegalSeba and book a consultation with our experts.
Contact Us
For personalized assistance and more information on social welfare organizations, book a consultation with our experts by visiting LegalSeba.com/book-now or contact us at:
Phone/WhatsApp: +8801753718223
Email: support@legalseba.com
