Major Malian civil society organizations have issued a joint statement protesting a government proposal to impose a new tax on non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The statement, signed by umbrella groups including the National Council of Civil Society (CNSC), the Federation of Community Health Associations (FOSC), and the National Coordination of Peasant Organizations (CNOP), was circulated over the weekend of March 14-15, 2026.
The groups argue that the proposed tax would severely hinder their humanitarian and development operations at a time when Mali is facing a profound security and humanitarian crisis. They state that the measure would divert critical funds away from essential services delivered to vulnerable populations.
While the exact details and rate of the proposed tax require further verification from official government sources, the NGO coalition's public condemnation highlights growing tensions over operational space and funding. The organizations are calling for the withdrawal of the proposal and for continued dialogue with authorities.
The Malian government has not yet issued an official public response to the statement. The situation unfolds as international humanitarian funding for the Sahel region, including Mali, faces significant global pressures.
