This study aims to examine the extent and effectiveness of grassroots participation in Egyptian private voluntary organizations (PVOs). In addition, it traces the historical development of PVOs in Egypt and the laws that have been governing their activities. The authors deduce from this study that legal restrictions and bureaucratic impediments--not financial constraints--are the main obstacles that limit the activities of PVOs, and come up with specific recommendations to enhance grassroots participation in Egyptian society. Cairo Papers in Social Science Vol. 19, No. 3.