Symbiosis International is an Australian organisation working to overcome poverty in Bangladesh, one of the world’s poorest countries. Throughout Symbiosis’ 15-year history, more than 13,000 people have joined long-term programs that are helping transform their communities.

Symbiosis’ slogan is Promoting human development in harmony with the environment. This reflects its commitment to all-of-life change that is long-lasting because it is both environmentally and culturally sustainable.

The main thrust of this work is through a process called empowerment, whereby the poor are strengthened and equipped to find long-lasting solutions to tackling poverty. Emphasis is given to those who are most marginalised within Bangladeshi society. Women make up around 80% of project participants.

The work of Symbiosis is aligned with the focus and framework of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals. Like the Goals, it covers a broad spectrum, including health, economic growth, education and environmental care. This approach, coupled with genuine commitment, has helped bring about true transformation in hundreds of villages throughout Bangladesh.

Symbiosis is currently supported by several donors in Australia, with a small proportion of funding from the USA and Canada. However, there are numerous opportunities for new partnerships for specific parts of the Symbiosis program, especially in the areas of health care and vocational training.

Within Australia, Symbiosis seeks to raise awareness about poverty and encourages Australians to actively participate in the work of fighting extreme poverty. This has resulted in Symbiosis conducting events such as the Great Aussie Rickshaw Ride from Queensland to Tasmania occurring July-Sep 2010.

For more information visit www.symbiosis-int.org