This brief is the first in a series exploring the analysis of original research conducted during the design process for an NGO sector support facility. It sets out the contextual and conceptual framework that underpinned the research and draws out key themes emerging from the findings. Additionally, it provides a substantive update upon research on the NGO sector conducted in 2012. The brief sets out the historical background from which the NGO sector in Indonesia has emerged, and describes, based on the findings of the field research, its current profile.