What we stand for

The NBO (Network of Buddhist Organisations) was founded in 1993 to promote fellowship and dialogue between UK Buddhists, to facilitate co-operation in matters of common interest and to work in harmony with Buddhist and likeminded organizations – for example the  European Buddhist Union and Inter Faith Network UK

Why do we need the NBO?

Over the past thirty years, a diverse range of traditions have become well-established in the UK. Buddhism has started to permeate our culture. In addition to traditions which have their roots in Asia, we have Western Buddhist movements. We also have in the burgeoning mindfulness movement, a growing secularized form of Buddhist practice. In addition to these rapid developments within UK Buddhism itself, there are strong governmental and cultural pressures on faiths. Recent equality legislation has emphasised religious identity;  national religious education frameworks  identify Buddhism as one of six major UK faiths; and Buddhist chaplains are now invited to hospitals, prisons, further and higher educational establishments and other civic bodies.

The NBO is a national and non-denominational  representative body where these matters can be considered and policies developed. Since these developments affect the whole Buddhist community, it is essential that Buddhists from all backgrounds work together to produce coherent and thoughtful responses. The future direction of UK Buddhism will depend upon decisions that the Buddhist Community collectively make today.

What does the NBO do?

The NBO exists to provide a framework and structure for individual Buddhists to cooperate together and respond in a coherent way to the growing demands being made on ‘UK Buddhism’. We are a charity that runs on the generosity and virtue of volunteers. We provide a neutral non-denominational forum where right action – intelligent, generous, and ethical action – is our foundation. We do not validate or endorse Buddhist traditions; we are only interested in acting well, for the benefit of a flourishing UK Buddhist Community, and for the common good. Our volunteers all have their own traditions and forms of practice which inspire and motivate their behaviour. What they bring to the NBO is the intention to use their skills for the benefit of all and to make decisions which will help Buddhism to take root in the UK in a healthy way that exemplifies Buddhist values.