CHINA'S CHARITY SECTOR BLOSSOMS
Earthquake response dramatically transforms aid and relief efforts
The 2008 Wenchuan earthquake still haunts many. More than 80,000 people died or went missing, and 15 million lost their homes. The progress in reconstruction is impressive, but there has been something else of equal significance: the earthquake had a major impact not only on how the Chinese government responds to and prepares for natural disasters, but also, to an unprecedented degree, in motivating citizen volunteers and the country's charity groups to become involved in an extraordinary humanitarian relief effort. As a result, the charity sector in China has become far more prominent. We are now working to help improve the transparency, accountability, and governance of China's charitable sector by: examining international models of charity governance; supporting the formulation of policy recommendations to improve the legal framework for philanthropy; assisting local governments to promote charitable sector growth; and helping charities improve their organizational governance and financial management. In addition, we are fostering a platform of key stakeholders to promote growth, accountability, and effectiveness of the charity sector. Ultimately, this will increase public confidence and strengthen the charitable sector in China.
— CHEN LIUTING
Program Officer, Community Development, Beijing