Civil Society Development Foundation (FDSC): Romania 2024 – The Non-Governmental Sector. Profile, Trends, Challenges

30 July 2024 | Members' Corner

This study provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of the NGO sector in Romania and offers valuable insights for stakeholders interested in the development and support of civil society.

The report, now available in English, highlights key aspects of the sector, including its growth, economic impact, and the challenges it faces. We believe that the findings will be of great interest and use to our international partners.

Below are some key highlights from the report:

  • Number of NGOs: Romania hosts approximately 127,000 NGOs, averaging 6.7 entities per 1,000 inhabitants, compared to the EU average of 9.4.
  • Economic Contribution: The NGO sector’s revenues amounted to 1.51% of Romania’s GDP in 2022, totaling around 21 billion lei.
  • Employment: The sector employs approximately 127,000 individuals, with a significant percentage experiencing burnout due to the demanding nature of their work.
  • Public Trust: Trust in NGOs remains stable at 50%, with younger and more educated demographics showing higher levels of trust.
  • Challenges: The report identifies significant issues such as inadequate funding, resource scarcity, and high burnout rates among employees and volunteers.

The full report offers a comprehensive overview of the sector, including financial dimensions, organizational challenges, and the societal impact of NGOs in various domains such as social welfare, education, and human rights.

We believe that this report will be a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics and needs of the NGO sector in Romania. We look forward to discussing the findings further and exploring potential collaborations to strengthen our civil society.