Martin Chautari (MC) began as an informal discussion group in Kathmandu in 1991, allowing development professionals and academics to meet every two weeks to share insights and experiences. Now nationally known for its discussions, Chautari also conducts research focused on governance and democracy, media, education and livelihoods with cross-cutting themes of gender and social inclusion. A rigorous mentoring program of young researchers is in-built into MC’s work. The discussions, research, mentoring, publications and the library form an intrinsic part of MC’s primary objective: strengthening the social contract between state and citizens and expanding and making inclusive the public sphere by promoting informed dialogues and analytically rigorous research.