Friendship is a well-known non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Bangladesh that works towards improving the lives of marginalized communities living in remote and hard-to-reach areas of the country. The organization was founded in 2002 by Runa Khan, with the aim of providing essential services such as healthcare, education, disaster relief, and livelihood support to communities living in riverine and coastal areas.

Friendship is a needs-based and values-driven organisation, deeply embedded in the communities where it works. We focus on understanding local situations and identifying gaps that we can fill, and we always do so in consultation and inclusion with the communities.

Because all problems are intertwined, we have developed an integrated development model where all organisational sectors work in close interaction. Our programs span across our floating hospitals and access to healthcare for all, disaster relief, capacity building and economic development, climate resilience, education, inclusion and access to rights and and cultural preservation.

This pragmatic, holistic and participative approach in implementing solutions has proved to work. It gives high social return for communities and donors.

Here are some of the key features and initiatives of Friendship NGO:

1. Health Services: Friendship provides comprehensive healthcare services to communities living in remote and underserved areas. The organization operates floating hospitals, clinics, and mobile medical units, providing primary healthcare, maternal and child healthcare, and disease prevention and treatment services.

2. Education: Friendship is committed to improving access to education for children and young people living in remote areas. The organization operates schools and adult literacy programs, providing quality education to children and adults who would otherwise not have access to education.

3. Disaster Relief: Friendship plays a critical role in providing disaster relief and response services during natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. The organization provides emergency relief supplies such as food, water, and shelter, and also helps with the rehabilitation and reconstruction of affected communities.

4. Livelihood Support: Friendship supports sustainable livelihoods for communities living in remote and underserved areas. The organization provides vocational training, microfinance, and other support services to help individuals and communities improve their economic and social well-being.

5. Research and Advocacy: Friendship conducts research and advocacy on issues affecting marginalized communities in Bangladesh. The organization's research helps to inform policy and practice, and its advocacy efforts help to raise awareness and generate support for the needs and rights of these communities.