Overview

The Abdul Momen Khan Memorial Foundation, widely known as the Khan Foundation (KF), is a non-political, non-profit development organization established in memory of Abdul Momen Khan, who served as Cabinet Secretary and later Minister for Food of the Government of Bangladesh from 1977 to 1982. He was deeply respected as a philanthropist and social worker who believed in helping vulnerable people and improving society. Inspired by his values and lifelong dedication, KF was founded with a guiding belief: "Democracy for Development and Development for Democracy."

As a non-profit organization, KF works solely for public benefit. All its resources are reinvested into programs that promote democracy, human rights, good governance, and socio-economic development. KF is officially registered with the NGO Affairs Bureau (Registration No. 780, dated 04/12/1993), the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (Registration No. C-528(41)/2002, dated 21/10/2002), and under the Microcredit Regulatory Authority (MRA), ensuring full compliance, transparency, and accountability in its operations.

KF's reputable work has earned it Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC), through which it regularly participates in advocacy initiatives and engages with UN agencies at national and international levels. This recognition reflects KF's credibility and commitment to advancing democratic governance, human rights, and inclusive development.

KF began its journey during one of the most difficult times in Bangladesh's history—the devastating floods of 1988. When millions of people lost their homes and livelihoods, KF stepped forward with emergency relief, providing food, shelter, and essential support. This early intervention helped many families survive and begin rebuilding their lives.

However, while working closely with affected communities, KF realized that disasters were only part of a broader structural challenge. Many families were already trapped in poverty, facing limited access to education, gender inequality, weak governance systems, and social injustice. KF understood that emergency relief alone could not address these deeper and systemic issues.

Over time, KF transitioned from short-term humanitarian assistance to long-term development and rights-based programming. With nearly four decades of experience, KF now works in areas such as democracy and good governance, gender equality, legal empowerment, advocacy, child rights, environmental justice, and socio-economic development. The organization focuses on creating sustainable change by strengthening institutions, enhancing citizen participation, improving livelihood opportunities, and promoting social accountability.

KF has also established and operates several networks and forums at local and national levels, including the UP Members Forum, Forum for CSOs, Women Lawyers' Network, and District Court Lawyers' Group. These platforms play a vital role in implementing project activities, promoting policy dialogue, and strengthening grassroots governance and legal awareness.

Through its Women Lawyers' Network and national congresses, KF has significantly contributed to the political and economic empowerment of women by providing training, leadership development, and capacity-building opportunities to women lawyers across the country. These efforts enhance women's participation in governance, access to justice, and representation in decision-making processes.

Given its extensive experience in local government strengthening, KF maintains strategic linkages with the Municipal Association of Bangladesh (MAB) and the Bangladesh Union Parishad Forum (BUPF). Furthermore, KF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Local Government (NILG) to support institutional capacity building and governance reforms.

KF is also an active member of the Bangladesh Shishu Adhikar Forum (BSAF), a coalition of civil society organizations working to advance child rights in Bangladesh. Additionally, KF's Executive Director serves as an Executive Committee member of the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) and as Treasurer of Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), ensuring strong collaboration and coordination with leading human rights and legal advocacy organizations.

KF places special importance on supporting women, children, and marginalized communities, recognizing that inclusive governance and equitable access to opportunities are essential for sustainable development. The foundation believes that lasting development is only possible when institutions are transparent, accountable, participatory, and responsive to citizens' needs.

Today, KF continues its mission as a trusted and credible development organization committed to building a just, inclusive, and resilient society—where democracy, development, human rights, and dignity advance together.